October 28, 2016

LO C A L

October 28-November 3, 2016 N EWS

YO U

C A N

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Crib to College: An Educational Guide to Your Child’s Success SPECIAL SECTION VOLUME 9, ISSUE 44

Crowning Moment

Dana Hills grad to compete for Miss California USA title D P L I V I N G / PAG E 2 6

Dana Hills High School graduate, Avriel Tomaiko, prepares to compete for the Miss California USA title.

Tomaiko will compete with more than 100 other women in December. Photo: Kristina Pritchett

City Manager Doug Chotkevys Resigns Effective Nov.1 EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

New Sculpture Unveiled, Dedicated at Pines Park EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

www.danapointtimes.com

Art Brewer and Surfing’s Divine Prince of Decadence SC SURF/PAGE 30

VOTE FOR THE 2016 BEST OF DANA POINT AT DANAPOINTTIMES.COM

DP EYE ON DP Dana Point

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING the sculpture is a tree that children are often seen playing on.

WHAT’S NEXT: “My kids have been playing here since they could walk,” Tomlinson said. “I hope this is somewhere kids will play, and people will stop to take pictures with it.”—KP

California Coastal Commission to Discuss Dana Point’s Short-Term Rentals

A Randolph Rose art piece was unveiled on Wednesday, Oct. 26 in Pines Park to celebrate Arts & Humanities Month. Photo: Kristina Pritchett

What’s Up With...

Five things Dana Point should know this week

City Manager Announces Resignation Effective Nov. 1

THE LATEST: City Manager Doug Chotkevys announced his retirement, effective Nov. 1, city officials said in a press release Tuesday night.

“The Dana Point City Council and City Manager Doug Chotkevys have come to a mutual agreement by which Mr. Chotkevys is announcing his retirement effective November 1, 2016,” read a statement from the city.

The statement indicates Chotkevys agreed to resign in lieu of termination.

A search for a new city manager is expected to begin shortly to allow for “a selection process that can occur sometime after the first of the year,” according to the statement.

During the transition, Assistant City Manager Mike Killebrew will serve as the acting City Manager.

Chotkevys’ resignation was announced a month after the city hired Deputy City Manager Mark Denny, formerly the Chief Operating Officer for Orange County.

On Sept. 20, the city approved the creation of the role of Deputy City Manager/ Director of Public Works/Director of Community Services.

At the Sept. 20 meeting, Chotkevys said he was planning to retire in the next two to three years.

Dana Point Times October 28-November 3, 2016

“The Council and community have benefited over the years from Mr. Chotkevys’ work with various City Councils focused towards helping Dana Point evolve into a 5-Star destination resort town,” said Dana Point Mayor John Tomlinson in a statement.

Councilman Carlos Olvera said Chotkevys was very effective in getting the job done.

“His service of 15 years did what five previous city mangers in the same time couldn’t,” Olvera said.

Councilman Joe Muller said Chotkevys will be missed.

“I want to thank him for his years of service, and I’m thankful for everything he’s done,” Muller said. “I wish him well on his future endeavors.”

WHAT’S NEXT: Chotkevys is leaving after 15 years of employment with the city.

“As I look back on the last 15 years, I am most proud of the city team that we have assembled,” said Chotkevys. “The Dana Point City staff is one of the most competent, capable and dedicated city teams in the state. I am proud to have been a part of that team and to have shared in their many successes.”—Kristina Pritchett

THE LATEST: California Coastal Commissioners are scheduled to discuss the Executive Director’s determination regarding Dana Point’s recently approved short-term rental ordinance during its Nov. 4 meeting.

In February 2014, the city submitted a Local Coastal Program Amendment (LCPA) for the Commission’s certification, which amended the city’s zoning code ordinance to allow short-term rentals in all zoning districts where residential uses are allowed.

In April, the Commission approved the LCPA with suggested modifications, which were approved by the City Council in September.

The city requested for the Executive Director to determine that the resolution is legally adequate to satisfy the specific requirements set forth in the Commission’s April 14 certification order.

City Manager Doug Chotkevys said this is the normal course of action.

“After an LCPA is passed by the Coastal Commission with modifications, it has to come back to the sponsoring agency for acceptance,” Chotkevys said. “Once the LCPA with suggested modifications is approved, and accepted, by the sponsoring agency, the LCPA is then certified by the Commission.”

WHAT’S NEXT: The meeting will be held on Friday, Nov. 4 in Half Moon Bay. The meeting can be watched live online at www.coastal.ca.gov. —KP

Randolph Rose Artwork Dedicated at Pines Park

City Council OKs Agreement for Communications Consulting Services

THE LATEST: A Randolph Rose sculpture titled “Summer Fun” was unveiled and dedicated on Wednesday, Oct. 26 in Pines Park to celebrate Arts & Humanities Month.

City officials, along with members of the Arts & Culture Commission were in attendance to see the new sculpture unveiled.

“What better place to have this sculpture,” said Mayor John Tomlinson.

The sculpture depicts two children sitting on a log playing with a turtle. Behind

THE LATEST: During their Oct. 18 meeting, City Council approved staff to execute an agreement with Communications Lab for communication services related to city programs and services.

The Council voted five to zero in favor of the agreement.

Communications Lab is a communications consulting firm that specializes in services including media relations, community outreach, graphic design, video production and more. Communications

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Lab has worked with Santa Margarita Water District, Poseidon Water and East Orange County Water District.

The agreement is for a six-month period, with a monthly retainer of $6,000, not to exceed the amount of $36,000. The agreement also states the designated key communications contact is Brian Lochrie.

City Manager Doug Chotkevys said he believes the city is “well served” by having Communications Lab and Lochrie working with the city.

“Working with Communications Lab for the last four to six months has been refreshing,” Chotkevys said.

Councilman Scott Schoeffel asked how much an employed public information officer would cost a city the size of Dana Point. Chotkevys told the Council it would be expensive.

“When we were contracting out, it was in excess of $100,000 a year. It was very expensive,” Chotkevys said.

Councilman Rick Viczorek asked how the city came about finding the company.

“Word of mouth, by reputation. Mr. Lochrie, I believe, has worked for the TCA and other large agencies,” Chotkevys said.

“He’s been very effective about it. When you’re looking for a specialist, you want to make sure you get the best, and someone who has a good reputation, and Mr. Lochrie does have that reputation.”

He added that he believed the city was getting a fair price for the services.

WHAT’S NEXT: Viczorek asked if the price would always be $6,000 a month. Assistant City Manager Mike Killebrew told the Council that the price could be more or less than the quoted $6,000.

The agreement also allows either party to terminate the agreement upon 30 days written notice to the other party with or without cause.

The contract is set to end on April 30, 2017. —KP

Council Withdraws LCPA Regarding Town Center Parking THE LATEST: The City Council unanimously approved to withdraw a Local Coastal Program Amendment (LCPA) to modify parking standards for the city’s Town Center Plan area during its Oct. 18 meeting.

The parking standards in question were the ones approved by the city on Sept. 15, 2015 as part of the Town Center plan. After Measure H was passed and certified— and after the Coastal Commission certified it as an LCPA—the city recommended to withdraw the other Town Center parking LCPA. WHAT’S NEXT: The regulations prescribed

by Measure H, including parking standards, will be implemented. —KP www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

DP Sheriff’s Blotter COMPILED BY BY VICTOR CARNO

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.

Thursday, October 20 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Stonehill Drive/Del Obispo Street (5:09 p.m.)

A man was seen in the dirt area behind Circle K drinking a beer and cutting down branches. Onlookers were afraid that the man was trying to start a fire.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Stonehill Drive/Del Obispo Street (12:45 p.m.) A man in his 20s was seen doing drugs in his white jeep. The caller told police that the man then looked like he was about to pass out inside of the vehicle.

DISTURBANCE Via Sacramento, 26300 Block (12:14 p.m.) A man called police because he believed that his ex-girlfriend and some old friends were harassing him. The caller informed police that his residence had been burglarized and some of his property had been damaged.

UNKNOWN TROUBLE Dana Point Harbor Drive, 24200 Block (11:47 a.m.) Authorities were contacted after someone was heard screaming for help on the jetty

by the Ocean Institute. Fireboats were dispatched and found three kayakers in distress just off shore.

driver contacted authorities after a man jumped out of his car and ran toward Salt Creek Beach without paying his fare.

ILLEGAL PARKED VEHICLE Pacific Coast Highway, 34100 Block (9:39 a.m.) A man called police after he saw another man park less than two feet away from a fire hydrant. The caller said that he asked the driver to move his car so that he does not receive a parking ticket, but the driver cursed him out and said that he didn’t care if he got a ticket.

WELFARE CHECK Paseo Viento, 35400 Block (9:42 a.m.) A woman called police after she could not get ahold of her sister. She told police that she had talked to her sister two days prior and had been trying to get ahold of her ever since.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Pacific Coast Highway, 34100 Block (7:22 a.m.) Police were notified about an older model Chevrolet van with a man sleeping inside. The caller said there was evidence that the man had been urinating and defecating nearby.

Wednesday, October 19 DISTURBANCE Selva Road/Pacific Coast Highway (8:14 p.m.) A man was seen walking in and out of lanes of traffic, aggressively approaching and stopping vehicles on Pacific Coast Highway.

DISTURBANCE Pacific Coast Highway/RitzCarlton Drive (4:08 p.m.) A woman called police after she witnessed a man grab her 14-year-old son by the arm and push him over while taking a wave at Salt Creek Beach.

DISTURBANCE Trinidad Drive/Santiago Drive (11:45 a.m.) Four teenage girls were seen in a playground drinking alcohol and Snapchatting on top of a play structure.

DEFRAUDING AN INNKEEPER Niguel Road/ Pacific Coast Highway (11:35 a.m.) A taxi

Business Beat

ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY Trinidad Drive, 33100 Block (9:42 a.m.) Animal Control was contacted after three to four dogs were seen locked in cages inside of a gray Toyota.

Tuesday, October 18 RECKLESS DRIVING Pacific Coast Highway/ Ritz-Carlton Drive (8:16 p.m.) A driver in a white sedan was seen racing back and forth through the area.

SHOTS HEARD-NO SUSPECT INFORMATION Vista Del Mar, 26700 Block (6:55 p.m.)

A woman told police she thought she heard a gunshot from a few houses to the left of her location.

DISTURBANCE Street of the Golden Lantern, 34400 Block (6:27 p.m.) A man was seen throwing rocks at people and boats.

DISTURBANCE Street of the Silver Lantern, 33900 Block (5:29 p.m.) A woman told police her boyfriend was throwing rocks at her house.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Via Fortuna, 34300 Block (4:02 a.m.)

Police were called for juveniles being “too loud.” the kitchen really gets our creative juices flowing,” said Collins. “I’m glad South Orange County is getting some culinary recognition. It shows you don’t have to go to Costa Mesa or Santa Ana for great food.” —Victor Carno

News from Dana Point’s business community

COMPILED BY STAFF

ANNIVERSARY

AWARD WINNERS WATERMAN’S HARBOR 34661 Street of the Golden Lantern, Dana Point. 949.764.3474. www.watermandp.com It has only been two years since they opened their doors in the Dana Point Harbor, but Waterman’s Harbor has already proven their culinary chops. Serving up fresh seafood with a premium ocean view has landed The Waterman’s their very first Golden Foodie Award in the best seafood category this past September.

The Golden Foodie Awards is a people’s choice award that has been called the “the Oscars of food.” Every week throughout summer, people nominated and voted for their favorite food, drinks and chefs, separated into 24 categories ranging from Dana Point Times October 28-November 3, 2016

Waterman’s Harbor was the recipient of a Golden Foodie Award for Best Seafood. File Photo

best pizza to best cocktails.

Being nominated last year for best new restaurant, owner Damian Collins knew the competition was stacked.

“I felt pretty confident in this category, because we were the only restaurant that had dock-to-table food. The fish that we serve is delivered from local fisherman within the harbor, and was probably alive two hours earlier,” Collins said.

Collins attended the award ceremony with Executive Chef Michael J. Doctulero, and Director of Special Events Anne Lynn.

“It was great seeing everyone at the event; getting out from being packed in

GEMS N’ LOANS 34291 Doheny Park Road, Dana Point. 949.429.3055. www.gemsnloansdanapoint.com.

Gems N’ Loans, located in Dana Point, is celebrating its one year anniversary of being a part of the community. The company has been serving customers in the region for around 22 years now, but is new to the Dana Point community.

As a pawn shop, they offer a variety of merchandise including jewelry, gold, electronics, computers, DSLR cameras and more.

“We feel really appreciated and welcomed into the community and are grateful for our first year here in Dana Point,” said Dante Carrillo, store manager.

—Maggie Fetterly

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Community Meetings SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29

Dana Point Farmers’ Market

9 a.m.-1 p.m. Every Saturday, the Farmers’ Market is set up in La Plaza Park.

Pacific Coast Highway and La Plaza, Dana Point.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 1

City Council

6 p.m. Members of the City Council will meet inside 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.

Dana Harbor Toastmasters

7-8:30 p.m. Fine-tune your public speaking skills each Tuesday at Capo Beach Church. 25975 Domingo Avenue, Capistrano Beach. 949.492.7181. www.toastmasters.org.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3

Coastmasters

7-8:30 a.m. Join the members of the Coastmasters every Thursday to improve your speaking and leadership skills. 34451 Ensenada Place, Dana Point. Adjacent to Baby Beach at OC Sailing & Events Center.

Networking at Noon

11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Join the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce and other members to network. Networking at Noon happens every first Thursday of the month. $15 for members, $20 for non-members. DoubleTree Suites.

34402 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point.

UPCOMING EVENT: SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5

Headlands Nature Walk

9-11 a.m. The walk focuses on plants and animals that can be found in the Headlands. The walk occurs every first Saturday of the month. Nature Interpretive Center. 34558 Scenic Drive, Dana Point. dpnaturalresources@ danapoint.org. 949.248.3527.

www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP EYE ON THE ELECTION 2016

Big Decisions, Part II

California voters will determine the fate of several major state ballot propositions this year

BY MATT CORTINA AND MAGGIE FETTERLY, DANA POINT TIMES

A

s part of our ongoing coverage of the 2016 election, Dana Point Times selected several ballot propositions that all California voters will face in November to dissect. This week, we’re taking a look at Proposition 64, which would legalize recreational marijuana sales, and Propositions 62 and 66, which are competing to determine whether to abolish the death penalty, or, in a way, actually speed it up.

For information on all the ballot propositions, or on any of this year’s local or state races, head online to wwww.danapointtimes.com.

PROPOSITIONS 62 AND 66

To Mend or End the Death Penalty California’s Prop. 62 would repeal the death penalty in the state. The proposition, if approved, will replace the death penalty with the sentence of life without the possibility of parole as the maximum punishment. The measure would also require the individual found guilty to work while in state prison in order to pay restitution to their victims’ families.

However, another proposition on the ballot, Prop. 66, would keep the death penalty in place but change the procedure to speed up the appeals process in the courts.

The controversial history of the death penalty in California began in 1972, when the California Supreme Court decided to abolish the death penalty, deeming it unconstitutional. However, in 1978, voters approved Prop. 7 to re-institute the death penalty in California. According to proponents’ statements in the state’s official Voter’s Guide, since 1978, 13 inmates have been executed in the state of California, costing a total of about $5 billion to taxpayers throughout the years.

Californians rejected a measure to ban capital punishment in 2012.

The main argument for Prop. 62 is twofold: first, advocates say it would prevent potentially innocent people from being put to death; and second, taxpayers would save money by building a cost effective Dana Point Times October 28-November 3, 2016

system that creates opportunity for work, and closure for the victims’ families.

According to proponents, taxpayers would save $150 million per year if Prop.

62 passes. It is also argued that the risk in executing an innocent person and racial inequality in the criminal justice system would be improved.

Those who oppose the initiative argue it would be too expensive for taxpayers and would protect criminals instead of protecting the victims’ rights.

Proposition 66, meanwhile, proposes a mend to the trial system that would speed up appeals but not abolish the death penalty. Supporters of Prop. 66 argue that taxpayers won’t pay for these criminals while they wait on death row for 30 or more years due to the faster and more efficient court system created.

Prop. 66 would require trial courts to be in charge of petitions challenging death penalty convictions with a time frame for review and an appointed attorney to only work these types of cases. Prop. 66 follows the same compensation requirements to the victims’ families.

Allison Martin, campaign spokesperson for Yes on Prop. 62, said, “California’s death penalty is broken beyond repair.

Prop. 66’s exorbitant price tag and extreme proposed remedy prove just how irreplaceable California’s death penalty system is. Prop. 62 is the only real solution to our failed death penalty.”

Both propositions offer solutions to the death penalty process in California, but both are at far ends of the spectrum on how to do so. If both propositions are approved, whichever initiative has the most yes votes will be enacted and the other will not. —Maggie Fetterly For Prop. 62 Former President Jimmy Carter, Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom, U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders, California Democratic Party, California NAACP, several ACLU groups, select religious and humanist organizations Contributions for Prop. 62 Yes on 62, No on 66 (Taxpayers for Sentencing Reform): $7,220,713.82.

Million Voter Project Action Fund: $1,755,000.

For Prop. 66 California Republican Party, dozens of law enforcement advocacy groups, and dozens of district attorneys and sheriffs throughout California.

Contributions for Prop. 66 Californians to Mend, not End, the Death Penalty (Supported by Prosecutors and Law Enforcement): $4,664,882.70 No on Prop 62 (political action committee): $8,372,260.10

PROPOSITION 64

To Legalize Marijuana Medical marijuana has been legal in California since 1996. Prop. 64 would legalize recreational marijuana—that is, you wouldn’t need a doctor’s note—for adults over 21 years of age, with a lot of stipulations.

If passed, smoking marijuana in public and while driving would be illegal, as would possession in school zones. Californians would be able to possess up to 28.5 grams at a time, and could cultivate six plants at home.

In order to sell marijuana, businesses would be required to get a state license.

On top of that, municipalities would be able to ban the sale of recreational marijuana, but they won’t receive a share of the tax revenue. Businesses would also not be able to sell within 600 feet of a school, day care center or youth center.

A newly reformatted Bureau of Marijuana Control would regulate and license marijuana businesses. Though both medical and recreational marijuana sales are technically illegal under federal law, the Department of Justice, under President Obama’s direction, has said it would not prosecute those following local and state marijuana sales laws. Currently, recreational marijuana is legal in Colorado, Washington, Oregon and Alaska, and in addition to California, voters in Massachusetts, Maine, Nevada and Arizona will also be voting on statewide legalization measures. Half the country currently allows either medical or recreational marijuana sales.

Two new taxes would be created and levied on cultivation and retail sales of marijuana. Revenue from the taxes would be used to fund drug research, youth programs, remedies to environmental concerns regarding marijuana cultivation, and an initiative to help police determine whether or not a driver is high. The taxes would include $9.25 per ounce for flowers (aka buds) and $2.75 per ounce for leaves, with exceptions for certain medical marijuana sales and cultivation. The other tax would be a 15 percent tax on the retail price of marijuana. Local governments, if they allow recreational marijuana sales, could add on additional local taxes.

Penalties for using or possessing marijuana underage include community service and drug counseling. If businesses are caught selling illegally, they would face jail time and fines.

Proponents of Prop. 64 say legalization is a long time coming.

“Marijuana is available nearly everywhere in California—but without any protections for children, without assurances of product safety, and without generating tax revenue for the state,” wrote Steven Downing, deputy chief of the L.A. Police Department, and Donald Lyman, chief of chronic disease at the California Department of Public Health, in the proposition’s

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Via Prop. 64, California voters will decide whether or not to become the fifth state in the U.S. to legalize the sale of recreational marijuana. Photo: Public Domain

official support statement.

Proponents expect about $1 billion every year in new tax revenue should Prop.

64 pass, and the nearly 8,800 marijuanarelated felony arrests to cease upon legalization.

Opponents claim that Prop. 64 would double automobile accidents, citing the proposition’s lack of standards for “high driving”—the measure only includes a mechanism to finance research on the subject. They also claim danger, citing that people will be able to grow plants inside their home, inside of school zones.

Opponents also claim ads for smoking will increase, the black market for drugs will increase, and underprivileged neighborhoods will experience a proliferation of marijuana retail shops nearby, hurting the local community. —Matt Cortina For Prop. 64 California Democratic Party, U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders, Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom, ACLU of California, California NAACP, California Nurses Association Contributions for Prop. 64 Yes on 64 (business, physician, environmental and social justice PAC): $15,156,939.70 Drug Policy Action (nonprofit): $4,470,000 Fund for Policy Reform (nonprofit): $4,237,000 Against Prop. 64 California Republican Party, U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein, Rep. Bill Brough and dozens of sheriffs, district attorneys and police organizations Contributions against Prop. 64 No on Prop. 64 (California Public Safety Institute): $1,124,001.16 Sam Action Inc. (nonprofit): $1,364,000

www.danapointtimes.com

DP SOAPBOX Dana Point

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

Letters to the Editor SPEEDING VEHICLES JACK LAGUNA, Dana Point

With all that our law enforcement is expected to do, I can’t say they should spend more time chasing speeding cars.

The sad result is that our wonderful wide roads have been turned into speed tracks where going the speed limit will put you in mortal danger.

My attitude is if you break the law, you deserve the penalty, and if a camera can catch you, so much the better.

Every intersection and section of roadway that is prone to speeding should be checked by cameras. Let’s bring back some respect for our community and its laws.

NOT REFLECTING WELL RAY SOMMO, Capistrano Beach

I was shocked and saddened to read about the plight of Tom Volkmann [“Closing Shop,” Dana Point Times, Oct. 21]. He has been repairing my autos for several years.

I was in the auto repair business myself for many years and know that it is seldom you find an honest and competent person in this field. Tom is both, and an asset to our community. I don't know what is happening with Dana Point. It certainly doesn't reflect the better interest of the majority of residents anymore. Hopefully, something can be done to save Tom's business.

FACT CHECK ON DEFICIT SPENDING JAY SOWELL, Dana Point

At the last City Council meeting, there was a dispute over whether the city had engaged in deficit spending. The facts can be found in a chart on page 80 of the City’s 2015 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR), available on the city’s website, www.danapoint.org. The chart shows deficits (annual expenditures exceeding revenue) for the preceding seven years, except in 2014, where a $2 million deficit was offset by a one-time sale of land in Capo Beach for $3.6 million.

City Council has been eroding our coffers for seven years. Page 79 in the same report shows the impact this has had on city funds, which declined from $55 million in 2008 to $33 million in 2015. $33 million sounds like a lot. However, almost $9 million is tied up in emergency and cash flow reserves. Add to that the amounts set aside for planned capital improvements, a TBID fiduciary account, and other restricted funds, and only $7.7 is million left over that is truly unassigned.

That represents only a little more than two months of expenditures based on 2015 Dana Point Times October 28-November 3, 2016

figures. And how about funds that might be needed for the replacement of $200 million in depreciable assets shown on the balance sheet?

At the Council meeting, Councilman Joe Muller asked some questions about whether spending for the new $1 million police substation at City Hall was creating a deficit. The Assistant City Manager answered that the money was coming from past surpluses. How long can the city continue subtracting from the Treasury rather than adding to it?

Our City Council members and their backers claim they are prudent and fiscally conservative, but the facts show a pattern of recklessness that can't continue.

Dana Point voters and taxpayers need to keep a close eye on City Hall.

OPEN LETTER TO “CONCERNED TOWN CENTER CITIZENS” CAROL KELLY, Dana Point

I recently received a mud-slinging, inappropriate email regarding Debra Lewis’s candidacy for Dana Point City Council, and I’ve learned a significant number of Dana Point residents also did. I’m outraged! Even though I recently changed my political affiliation to Republican, this email makes me want to change back to “Independent.”

The email began by denouncing Debra’s party affiliation. Our City Council race is non-partisan—not Republican vs. Democrat. Our Council serves Dana Point, not the Republicans or Democrats. If Debra Lewis is a registered Democrat and a “liberal,” (which the dictionary defines as being an advocate of individual rights), that means she wants to advocate for the rights of Dana Point residents. Debra wants responsible business development and growth, and she wants to review city budgets to ensure that our tax dollars are spent wisely.

The email stated that Debra has moved often and is a quitter. Debra and her husband bought their dream home for retirement in Dana Point a few years ago, so she plans on being here for the long run. She has adult children, has grandchildren and she wants to keep the quality of Dana Point safe and thriving for her family and future generations. Debra was the first mayor of Rancho Santa Margarita after helping establish their cityhood. She served her one-year term before finding it necessary to relocate to San Diego County to be near her gravely ill parents. Debra now has the time to promote responsible business development and growth, find balanced solutions to problems residents face and to help plan our community so it supports residents and businesses, while stopping frivolous lawsuits and litigation.

Another candidate has young children at home and a spouse serving in Sacramento. Would that candidate have the time to

serve us as thoroughly?

Debra Lewis and Paul Wyatt have gone door-to-door throughout Dana Point to learn the needs and concerns of residents and businesses. I’ll be voting for both of them for City Council. And again, this mudslinging, widely sent email has me strongly thinking about leaving the Republican Party because I can’t agree with their tactics.

Editor’s Note: Ms. Kelly supplied the Dana Point Times with a copy of the mailer.

VOTE “NO” ON MEASURE M JIM KIRKWOOD, San Clemente

Do you ever get tired of Capistrano Unified School District (CUSD) saying, “if we only had more money, we would be able to serve our students and community better?” Have you ever noticed that the only answer to education is the need for more money? The truth is no matter how much money taxpayers give CUSD, they manage to squander our taxes on everything except making our children and the facilities a priority. I have lived in San Clemente for 28 years and raised all of my children in San Clemente schools. We have had great experiences with teachers, arts programs, school staff, sports and many of the parent-led volunteer programs.

However, my experiences with the district administration officials and the trustees have been disingenuous. It is disturbing that CUSD passed a 25-year bond 15 years ago and many of the very same facility commitments that were proposed back then are being promoted again in Measure M. That means they want us to continue paying for the old bond for another 10 years and approve a new $900 million, 35-year bond, which is the largest bond in Orange County history. Also, take the time to look at the numbers; the $43 the district is using assumes no increase in interest rates, which they admitted could double the cost of the bond. District officials now use words like accountability, transparency, etc. because they know the public is tired of their irresponsible management of the public’s tax dollars.

In the beginning stages of developing this bond, the public was told that there would be specific budget categories established so that each community would have an understanding of where the money would be spent and what their priorities were. Yet, CUSD did not provide any specificity and instead wants us to write them a blank check.

I encourage my fellow citizens to vote “no” on Measure M. 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.

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

Lauralyn Loynes, 949.388.7700, x102 lloynes@picketfencemedia.com DISTRIBUTION RACKS, DRIVEWAYS, SUBSCRIPTIONS

Tricia Zines, 949.388.7700, x107 tzines@picketfencemedia.com BUSINESS OPERATIONS MANAGER Alyssa Garrett, 949.388.7700, x100 agarrett@picketfencemedia.com

PICKET FENCE MEDIA PUBLISHER Norb Garrett

> Susie Lantz (San Clemente)

EDITORIAL

> Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano)

Group Managing Editor > Matt Cortina City Editor, DP Times > Kristina Pritchett City Editor, SC Times > Eric Heinz City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Allison Jarrell Sports Editor > Steve Breazeale Special Projects Editor > Andrea Papagianis ART/DESIGN Art Director > Jasmine Smith ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes (Dana Point)

Real Estate Sales Manager > Michele Reddick OPERATIONS Finance Director > Mike Reed Business Manager > Alyssa Garrett Accounting & Distribution Manager > Tricia Zines SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller Jonathan Volzke CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco Maggie Fetterly Jake Howard Debra Holm Tim Trent Victor Carno

Dana Point Times, Vol. 9, Issue 44. 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 2016. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

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DP GETTING OUT Dana Point

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

The List

runs through Oct. 30. Tickets start at $20.

31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano.

949.489.8082. www.caminorealplayhouse.org.

EDITOR’S PICK

What’s going on in and around town this week

Saturday | 29

COMPILED BY STAFF

REPLACE YOUR LAWN WORKSHOP 9:30 a.m. The Tree of Life Nursey celebrates planting season with a series of workshops on growing native species in your yard. The Oct. 29 class involves a tour of nursery gardens. The workshop is free. 33201 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.728.0685. www.californianativeplants.com.

Friday | 28 PLAYSCHOOL HARVEST FESTIVAL 10 a.m.-noon. Join Playschool and celebrate the changing seasons. Children ages 3-5 are invited to come in costume and enjoy crafts, games, pumpkin decorating and more. Tierra Grande Park. 399 Camino Tierra Grande, San Clemente.

949.429.8797. www.san-clemente.org/ recreation.

‘RAINBOO CLASSIC’ GOLF TOURNAMENT Noon. The eighth annual scramble golf tournament takes over San Clemente Municipal Golf Course with a shotgun start at noon. Registration begins at 10 a.m., and the $150 per player fee includes a golf cart, lunch, a pair of Rainbow sandals and other goodies. Prizes to be given out at OC Tavern following the event. Marine color guard and San Clemente High School drum team will kick off the event.

Proceeds benefit the Wounded Warrior Foundation. Contact raybertt@cox.net or 949.361.6696 for more information.

BOO CRUISE 5-7 p.m. Hop aboard one of several 20-minute Harbor cruises. There will be a costume contest on every cruise. Rides are $5 per person, and proceeds benefit the local nonprofit, Community Autism Now. Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point.

888.224.0603. www.danawharf.com.

ORANGE COUNTY WINE CRUISE 5:30-7 p.m. Climb onboard a Dana Wharf luxury catamaran for this 90-minute wine cruise around the Dana Point Harbor.

Tickets are $49. Every Friday and Sunday.

See more events online. Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point. 888.224.0603. www.danawharf.com.

HAUNTED HOUSE 6-10 p.m. Walk though several rooms of this all-ages haunted house. Features include animatronics, lightning and fog.

There will also be candy and glow sticks for the kids. The event runs through Saturday, Oct. 29. Admission price is canned goods, which will be donated to Family Assistance Ministries in San Clemente. 1601 Via Ameno, San Clemente.

GHOSTS AND LEGENDS TOUR 6:30 p.m. Get in the Halloween spirit as Historical Society guides lead a “spooky” Dana Point Times October 28-November 3, 2016

Photo: Ocean Institute/Cliff Wasserman

SATURDAY OCT. 29 TO MONDAY, OCT. 31: SPOOKY SEAS: HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR TOUR 6-9 p.m. This Ocean Institute Halloween tour begins in the lab of a mad scientist and continues onto the wharf and the Pilgrim. Hot cider, hot cocoa and activities will be offered.

Suitable for children ages 10 and up. Cost is $7 for children, $10 for adults. Runs through Monday. Ocean Institute. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive. 949.496.2274. www.ocean-institute.org.

THE DISH

THE NOW INFAMOUS GOAT TOAST

walking tour of Los Rios Street. Tickets are $8 for adults, and $4 for children. Tours start at 6:30 p.m., 7 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and also run on Saturday, Oct. 29. Starts at the O’Neill Museum Historical Society.

31831 Los Rios Stree, San Juan Capistrano.

949.493.8444. www.sjchistoricalsociety.com.

LIVE MUSIC: FAMILY STYLE 7:30-11 p.m. Listen to live music from Family Style at Iva Lee’s. 555 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.361.2855. www.ivalees.com.

LIVE MUSIC: POUL PEDERSON 8 p.m. Listen to live music from Poul Ped-

CREEPY COOKIES 10:30-11:30 a.m. Kids and families are welcome to listen to “spooky stories” and decorate cookies at the Dana Point Library. 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point.

949.496.5517. www.ocpl.org/libloc/dana.

SATURDAYS AT THE SWALLOW’S INN 2:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m. Flock of 80s performs live music in the afternoon, followed by Big Fat Steve Band in the evening. There will also be a costume contest at 9 p.m.

31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.3188. www.swallowsinn.com.

T

his is what pub grub should be— simple ingredients made well into thoughtful dishes. PUBlic 74 complements their robust selection of craft cocktails and beer with fresh takes on traditional dishes, and none is apparently as renowned as the “Now Infamous” Goat Toast.

Two pieces of fresh sourdough bread are packed with a fluffy-bodied, yet punchytasting herbed goat cheese. The sandwich is grilled and topped with roasted tomato and a slightly sweet balsamic reduction. The bite is a great combo of texture—crispy bread, soft cheese and relenting tomatoes—and it’s a good balance of flavor—salty and funky cheese, with sweet and savory tomato and vinegar.

DANA POINT LIBRARY BOOKSTORE ANNUAL BOOK SALE 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Like-new books, gifts and games will available for sale in the community room of the Dana Point Library Bookstore. Sale also occurs on Sunday, Oct. 30. Dana Point Library Bookstore. 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point. 949.489.3956. www.friendsdanapoint.org/the-bookstore.

Who knows what made the sandwich infamous, but it’s certainly a grilled cheese sandwich worth talking about.

PUBlic 74 27211 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano.

949.481.2723. www.publicrestaurants.com

erson at Barnoa Wine Bar. 831 Via Suerte, No. 106, San Clemente. 949.388.4378. www.barnoawinebar.com.

LIVE MUSIC: JAM TAXI 8 p.m. Listen to live music from Jam Taxi at Goody’s Tavern in San Clemente.

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

‘DIAL M FOR MURDER’ 8 p.m. Deception, murder and passion complicate Frederick Knott’s darkly brilliant tale of jealousy and greed, Dial M for Murder. This is the second production of the season at the Camino Real Playhouse. Show

Page 8

LIVE MUSIC: DAVE’S NOT HERE 3-5 p.m. Food, drinks and dancing to music from Dave’s Not Here at Luxre Realty.

222 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente.

949.498.3702. www.luxrerealty.com.

HALLO-WINE PARTY 7 p.m. Listen to live music from the Show Killers, and participate in a costume contest—winner gets a free bottle of wine.

It’s happy hour all night, and there will be spooky games and activities. Barnoa Wine Bar. 831 Via Suerte, No. 106, San Clemente.

949.388.4378. www.barnoawinebar.com.

CASA CREEPY: HAUNTED HOUSE 7-9 p.m. Encounter ghosts, mummies, and creepy-crawly surprises around every corner during spooky tours of our historic 1927 home. Period films such as Nosferatu and vintage-themed special effects will ‘reel’ in the whole family. $12 for adults, $10 for members, $5 for kids under 12. Runs through Monday, Oct. 31. Casa Romantica. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente.

949.498.2139. www.casaromantica.org.

(Cont. on page 25) www.danapointtimes.com

CRIB TO COLLEGE

AN EDUCATIONAL GUIDE TO YOUR CHILD’S SUCCESS

In this edition of Crib to College, we chose to include stories that help inform and appeal to students, parents, teachers and community members of all ages. We share stories about outstanding students, help parents think about financing college, showcase innovative schools and more. You’ll hear the opinions of South Orange County schools from foreign exchange students, and find ways that kids, and kids at heart, can use community offerings to enrich their education.

Places

TO GO

Things

TO SEE South Orange County is home to dozens of regular and year-round activities for kids

By Andrea Papagianis

There are a bevy of opportunities for kids of all ages to experience culture in South Orange County. Whether it’s attending a theatrical production, checking out museum exhibits, getting outside or more, kids in the tri-cities can explore what the world has to offer, all within a 20-minute drive.

Here are some upcoming events and exhibitions, along with year-round destinations and ongoing offerings.

TAKING CENTER STAGE Enter the enchanting wizarding world as a live symphony orchestra performs each note from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone while the magical film plays on a titan screen. Shows run Nov. 11-13. $49-$99.

Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556-2787, www.scfta.org. ’Tis the season to share a holiday classic with the entire family. The heartwarming Miracle on 34th Street sees Macy’s jolly Santa Claus, Kris Kringle, confirmed as the true merriment-spreading, toy-giving man in red. Runs Nov. 25-Dec. 18.

Tickets are $27-$37. El Camino Real Playhouse, 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.489.8082, www.caminorealplayhouse.org.

Caspers Wilderness Park is an ideal place to get lost and learn from nature. Photo: Courtesy of OC Parks

EXPLORE THE OUTDOORS

Discover the region’s natural backdrop on a one-mile, ranger-led hike through Bell Canyon. Hikes are held each Sunday from 8-9 a.m. Suitable for all ages. $5 a vehicle parking fee. Caspers Wilderness Park, 33401 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, 949.923.2210, www.ocparks.com.

It’s kids’ turn to take the stage. Cast members from ages 4 to 16 will answer the call of the Acting Academy for Kids to bring the Oscar-winning twisted fairytale Shrek to life. The beloved green ogre Shrek, Donkey, Princess Fiona, Lord Farquaad and misfit band of creatures take the stage March 19, 25 and 26. Rehearsals begin in January.

Casts will have three rehearsals over the course of the spring. Participation fee $395-$495 plus materials and costume costs. El Camino Real Playhouse, www.caminorealplayhouse.org.

A DAY AT THE MUSEUM Through the new year, join the “heroes in a half shell,” the pizza-fanatic Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and put your problemsolving and collaboration skills to the test cracking puzzles, navigating mazes and overcoming obstacles in the sewer. Tickets start at $12.95. Discovery Cube Orange County, 2500 N. Main Street, Santa Ana, 714.542.2823, www.discoverycube.org.

Explore special exhibits featuring interactive art, nature and science activities during the annual Art & Nature Festival exploring art’s

Each second Sunday, track whale seasons on this 1.5-mile hike. Greys from fall to spring, blues in summer, watch from the Dana Point Headlands as the ocean’s largest creatures migrate through local waters.

Nature Interpretive Center, 34558 Scenic Drive, Dana Point, 949.248.3527, www.danapoint.org.

Explore one of California’s most visited beaches. San Onofre State Beach offers kayaking, surfing, swimming, fishing and more. Overnight camping in three campgrounds is available. The natural playground is located just three miles south of San Clemente on I-5. 949.492.4872, www.parks.ca.gov/sanonofre.

entwinement with the natural world. Festival runs Nov. 3-6. From 2-5 p.m. on the events last day admission is free for the Family Festival Sunday. Laguna Art Museum, 307 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach, 949.494.8971, www. lagunaartmuseum.org.

Sixth- through eighth-graders are invited to hang out, play games, watch movies and do crafts every Wednesday. Tween Scene is held from 3:30- 5:30 p.m. San Clemente Library, 242 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3493, www.ocpl.org/ libloc/sc.

Prominent female scientists across the study spectrum lead hands-on workshops for middle and high school aged girls aimed at giving participants an inside look at careers in oceanography, ecology, marine biology, biochemistry and more. Registration opens Nov. 14. Conferences held on Feb. 18 and March 18. Ocean Institute, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org.

GRAB A TALL TALE Tuesday is kids’ day at the Dana Point Library. Toddler story-time kicks off the festivities at 10 a.m., followed by the all-ages Stay and Play at 10:30 a.m. and preschool story-time at 11 a.m. Then, mans’ best friend becomes a beginning reader’s perfect story companion at 2:30 p.m. Dana Point Library, 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point, 949.496.5517, www.ocpl.org/libloc/dana.

Join the fun each Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. for stories, rhymes and songs in English and Spanish. All ages are welcome. San Juan Capistrano Library, 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org/libloc/sjc.

GROW WITH OTHERS The Community Outreach Alliance (COA) is the answer to many teens’ gripe of “I have nothing to do.” Instead of developing bad habits, COA connects kids with each other in a variety of programs.

COA helps create relationships through healthy lifestyles, and does so via art and music lessons, an open mic jam night, a bike club, a gaming network, sports groups and more. 1050 Calle Negocio, San Clemente, 949.388.0114, www.communityoutreachalliance.com.

CRIB TO COLLEGE

AN EDUCATIONAL GUIDE TO YOUR CHILD’S SUCCESS

OutStANdiNg Kids Local students highlight what South Orange County youth has to offer

By Matt Cortina

Three local students are doing South Orange County proud at home and across the country. Whether they’re running aeronautical missions, presenting scientific lectures at museums or, you know, saving the planet, these three young people are using their talents to make the world a better place.

WilLIam REdMonD

Aeronautical Engineer Student Shorecliffs Middle School’s William Redmond recently graduated from the renowned Space and Aviation Challenge at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama.

William says the experience was gratifying, as he was able to use his knowledge and experience in engineering to help the group execute militarylike operations.

“It was really, really cool,” William said. “Tons of great activities. Sometimes you’d go patrolling in the nighttime.

You’d fly around in jet simulators. It was overall a great thing to go through.”

The operations included nighttime excursions with missions, like, for instance, saving a downed pilot and securing intelligence while camp officials simulate gun fire.

Lectures were given throughout the program, and William says he hopes to parlay what he learned into an upcoming aeronautical program at Duke University.

WhiTnEY waChTEl

Ecology Club Founder, Environmental Pioneer Whitney knew she wanted to make a mark on Dana Hills High School even before she was enrolled there. As a member of the Ecology Center in San Juan Capistrano, Whitney reached out to the Advanced Placement Environmental Sciences teacher at the school, Dolores Dang-Wright, and asked if she would oversee an environmental club.

Now, four years later, Whitney is a senior and the Ecology Club holds monthly educational sessions at Dana Point elementary schools to inspire youth toward a life of environmental stewardship.

“It’s a really good experience,” Whitney said. “Younger kids are going to have to inherit the planet’s situation so the ability to engage children, it’s been really cool to see their development on how excited they are when we come every month, and it’s cool to hear when they take a plant home how they are tending to them.”

Whitney says sustainability and ecology will be a part of her upcoming college experience and eventual career. For now, she’s running the club and also writing an environmental column for the Dana Hills school newspaper.

KatE PoInTer

Future Cyber Archaeologist Kate Pointer, 10, is a San Juan Capistrano fifth grader, who recently gave a presentation on new techniques in archaeological technology to a full room at the Bowers Museum in Santa Ana. Pointer says she’s been interested in the subject since watching a children’s movie several years ago. From there, her appetite for all things archaeology has been insatiable.

“When I’m older, I want to get my doctorate as a cyber archaeologist and go between the computer and office, to out around the world digging for stuff,” Kate said.

For the presentation, Kate researched excavating techniques, particularly those used in Egypt and the Middle East, where Pointer says her interest lies in the artifacts archeologists uncover of the various ancient languages and religions.

She worked with several key researchers in the field to prepare.

Children learn to play through the St. Margaret’s Episcopal School Early Child Development Center’s play-based education. Photo: St. Margaret’s Episcopal School

PLAYING TO LEARN

By Eric Heinz

In traditional education, playtime has typically been regarded as a reward for hard work.

At St. Margaret’s Episcopal School’s Early Childhood Development Center (ECDC) in San Juan Capistrano, it’s part of the curriculum.

Chris Lozon, director of St. Margaret’s ECDC, said integrating students with a variety of activities helps cultivate their minds.

The center focuses on students ages 3 to 5.

“We have teachers working with small and large groups, and there are parts of the play-based education where skills are being taught,” Lozon said.

The play-based curriculum focuses on particular subjects. For literacy, students play with blocks with letters on them or play some kind of game incorporating letters; the same goes with math-and-science-based learning using numbers and logic-based activities.

“Because our ratio is 1:6 (teachers to students), the teachers can work individually with children and identify patterns,” Lozon said. “Some children choose only to do blocks, and some choose only to do dramatic play, and the teachers know that they’ll need to incorporate something with patterns. They will incorporate figurines and do little drama pieces to diversify (students’) education.”

The day starts with parents dropping off their children or spending a little time with them before the children go off to make their choices of playing for the period. They then gather in a circle for story time or some other group activity before going to the “big outdoor classroom,” Lozon said.

“After about an hour out there, they go out and make more choices, and then have lunch and then cleanup and rest and then back to the outdoor classroom,” she said.

Lozon said the outdoor classroom has a garden and small animals the students are able to interact with as well as typical playground equipment.

“Young children learn from experiences, and what we provide are tons of experi-

ences,” Lozon said.

According to a 2009 study by the Center for Early Childhood Education, studies showed play-based curriculums, even without the assistance of “props” or educational toys, can be beneficial to students’ growth.

“Phonemic awareness in preschool is one of the best indicators we have about how well a child will learn to read,” the study stated. “It is not surprising, then, that early play abilities are related to reading scores many years later.”

Lozon said the school’s own research has shown progress from the time they enter ECDC to the time they graduate from high school. St. Margaret’s is a private preschool to high school institution.

“Play-based education does improve physical knowledge and sensory integration and social knowledge … and the logical mathematical knowledge is the understanding in the brain about numbers,” she said.

“The true understanding is they know that one object is one and two is two. Let’s say you put up your hands and count that last finger and say five. Because of the experiences the children are building, they’re using that knowledge to build that mathematical knowledge.”

Inevitably, advertising education as “playbased” comes with raised eyebrows.

“There are very common misconceptions, and (some people) think that it’s the teachers saying, ‘Go and play’; that is not play-based learning,” Lozon said. “It’s an active, hands-on learning. The teachers have to scaffold the learning, and they work side-by-side (with the students), and they’ll sit next to them and compare and contrast their learning.”

Lozon said play-based learning also helps students with social interactions, which start to show as they enter elementary, middle and high school. She said it’s been proven that students who build proper physical attributes, such as being able to sit upright and focus during instruction, and social interaction sets a foundation to keep students engaged in their studies. •

CRIB TO COLLEGE

AN EDUCATIONAL GUIDE TO YOUR CHILD’S SUCCESS

Going Abroad Students from all over the world are currently living, studying in South Orange County

AFS Students (from L to R): Ella Tervonen, Bárbara Wolfenson Marchant, Jón Thordarson and Eduardo Thomas Noronha. Photo: Kristina Pritchett

By Kristina Pritchett

This school year, a handful of foreign exchange students are living with host families in South Orange County, including Dana Point and San Clemente.

These teens are part of the Orange County AFS Hosted Student program, which allows students from other countries to travel abroad and attend school, live with a host family and experience a different culture.

In Dana Point, Ella Tervonen traveled from Finland and attends Dana Hills High School.

In San Clemente Bárbara Wolfenson Marchant traveled from Chile; Eduardo Thomas Noronha is from Brazil; and Jón Thordarson is from Iceland. All three attend San Clemente High School. Over the summer, Monica Aguirre traveled to Japan for six weeks. But all were able to immerse themselves in a different culture.

We sat down with the four foreign exchange students and asked them what they’ve experienced so far, what differences they saw between their home countries and their Southern California lives and more.

The biggest difference, all four said, was the size of their high schools.

“The school, at least for me, is way bigger,” Eduardo said. “It’s about 10 times bigger; my school has around 300 students, and this school has around 3,000.”

Ella agreed and said there were about 600 students at her school in Finland, including middle school and high school students.

The students also said it was different how their classrooms were spread out and not under one roof. Eduardo added he was not used to the desks being in different arrangements.

“At my school, they were in straight lines; here, some are in clusters,” Eduardo said.

Jón said another big change is just speaking English every day.

“I never expected talking would be so tiring,” Jón joked.

Bárbara agreed and said if she could, she would sleep all day.

“The first week was so difficult because you had to think of what word it is, and our brains are doing a lot of work, not to translate but to understand,” she said.

When asked about the classes the stu-

“

The school, at least for me, is way bigger. It’s about 10 times bigger; my school has around 300 students, and this school has around 3,000.

EDUARDO THOMAS NORONHA

”

Bárbara Wolfenson Marchant, from Chile, and host sister Sydney Lantz before attending San Clemente High School’s Homecoming Dance on Saturday, Oct. 22. Photo: Susie Lantz

dents are taking here, compared to the ones back home, they said there’s a difference in variety.

“Here, you have way more choices on how hard your education is,” Jón said. “You can take easy classes, you can take hard classes.”

Bárbara said there’s more choices, such as electives like ceramics, and people have the ability to choose classes.

“In my country, you cannot pick your classes,” Bárbara said.

Ella said at her school in Finland, stu-

dents will take a course for two-and-a-half months, but must complete 75 classes in three years.

Jón said U.S. History has been different, but he’s enjoying it.

“The perspective here is way different,” Jón said about the class. “I feel like there’s less differences than I thought, but we’re taught very neutrally (in Iceland).”

One thing the students also noticed are the amount of clubs in which they can choose to participate.

The boys are currently in the Blood Drive club, the Sign Language Club and the Robotics Club. Ella is in Best Buddies, Traveling Club and a couple others. Bárbara took full advantage of the variety of organizations and has joined many.

“I’m in Pennies for Puppies, because I love puppies. I’m in Cinema Club, we watch movies and eat pizza, it’s so great. I’m in Fashion Club, Cool to be Kind and more,” Bárbara said.

Ella said at her school in Finland they don’t have sports, clubs or activities like homecoming or prom.

Bárbara said going to the football games is something Americans take for granted, but since her school doesn’t have sports like that, it’s a new experience.

“Everyone is so happy, and they’re cheering,” Bárbara said.

Eduardo and Jón said they’ve noticed that the sports at the high school bring everyone together.

“Sports here mean a lot, they’re a way to

college,” Eduardo said.

Ella said she really enjoyed attending homecoming, but loved participating in the half-time show out on the field.

The boys attended a Blink 182 concert, something Jón said he’d never thought he’d get to do.

“It’s been a dream,” Jón said. “They’re my favorite band.”

The three San Clemente High students also recently attended homecoming. Before the dance, Jón said he was looking forward to it.

“It’s very different, but I think it will be a lot of fun,” Eduardo said.

Each of the students said they tried to incorporate something from their home country into their American lives. For Ella, she teaches her host parents Finnish. Bárbara has cooked for her family, and the boys are always sharing music from their home countries.

Besides school, Jón said the weather is definitely a change—and so is driving.

“There’s way more cars here. We have one road that has three lanes, and we have slippery roads,” Jón said. “It’s not really harder, but it’s harder in a different way.”

One thing the four teens could agree on was learning to rely on others for rides.

“And there’s no public transportation,” Eduardo interjected. “It makes things kind of difficult to hang out with friends because you don’t really want to bother your family, they have things to do, but you want to hang out with your friends.”

Sydney, whose Bárbara ’s host sister, said she was looking forward to having a host sibling, especially one who spoke another language she was interested in.

“We can help each other,” Sydney said.

On the opposite side, students from South Orange County are also able to study abroad in other countries.

Monica, 16, a junior at San Juan Hills High School, went to Japan for six weeks over the summer. “[I chose Japan] because I’ve always been fascinated with the Japanese culture,” Monica said.

One difference Monica experienced was going from a family with three other siblings, to a host family with older siblings who didn’t live at home any longer.

“It was definitely strange,” she said.

Another thing she noticed was the culture.

“The way they would speak to each other, their manners,” Monica said. “Things they would say or do here would be OK, but there it’s not.”

She said she enjoyed learning Japanese, and it “wasn’t as difficult” as she thought it would be.

She said her favorite part of the trip was being able to go to the mountain spring, but she also enjoyed going to karaoke with friends and meeting new people.

“I met people from Hong Kong, France, Mongolia and other countries,” Monica said.

Monica said she would have loved to stay longer but didn’t want it to interfere with her school back in the states, and would definitely plan another trip back.

To find out more about hosting or traveling with AFS, contact www.afsusa.org/ team/orange-county-ca. •

CRIB TO COLLEGE

AN EDUCATIONAL GUIDE TO YOUR CHILD’S SUCCESS

Emotional Readiness

vs.

Academic Readiness

When are high school seniors ready to fly from the nest?

By Shelley Murphy

In the coming months, anxious high school seniors will check their mailboxes and inboxes for college admissions decisions. Their collegiate fates will be determined by three words: accepted, rejected or waitlisted.

As spring arrives, seniors make painstaking decisions and announce their college destination by sporting their school’s spirit wear. In August, they attend emotional farewell celebrations and delight in detailed dorm shopping.

After years of hard work, high school graduates are ready to fly from the nest. Or are they?

Last October, the Harris Poll, in partnership with the JED Foundation, Partnership for Drug-Free Kids and the Jordan Porco Foundation, released the results of a nationwide online survey of 1,502 college students

environments, control negative emotions or behavior and build positive relationships.”

For many college freshmen, the emotional hurdles faced their first year of college can be greater to overcome than academic obstacles.

When my boys left for college, I equated their college acceptances with college readiness. I reasoned since they’d completed the required coursework, passed the mandated tests and received college offers that they were prepared. I didn’t stop to consider how stressful the transition from high school senior to college freshman can be for students.

“

For many college freshmen, the emotional hurdles faced their first year of college can be greater to overcome than academic obstacles.

”

evaluating the freshman year experience.

The poll revealed 87 percent of students felt more emphasis was focused on being academically ready for college rather than emotionally prepared.

An overwhelming 60 percent of the firstyear college students wished they’d had more help emotionally preparing for college.

Emotional readiness is a significant indicator of first-year college success. The survey defined emotional readiness as: “the ability to take care of oneself, adapt to new

The poll shines a light on the emotional toll teens face their first year of college: 50 percent of surveyed students reported feeling stressed most or all of the time. One in four freshmen admitted to feelings of loneliness and one in five reported feeling depressed all or most of the time. The majority of these students (65 percent) chose not to seek help but to keep their troubles to themselves.

Popular culture and social media exacerbate teen stress and contribute to 45 percent of surveyed students saying, “It seems like

everyone has college figured out but me.”

According to U.S. News & World Report, feelings of stress and loneliness are among the top reasons that as many as one in three first-year students don’t return for their sophomore year.

Parent support can play a key role in helping freshman cope with first-year stresses.

Susan Parmelee, executive director of the Wellness & Prevention Center at San Clemente High School says, “Agree on a weekly facetime check-in, shoot for every Sunday so that kids have a chance to decompress and regroup for the week ahead.”

With 49 percent of college freshman reporting the college experience did not live up to their expectations, she advises parents to be encouraging. “Remind them that college is a time to explore new things and meet new people.”

Parmelee suggests parents begin the college conversation early and listen to their kid’s concerns. “The more we do to educate teens before they leave home, the better they will fare.”

While the results of the Harris Poll are startling, it starts a discussion among parents, educators and students about the importance of emotionally preparing teens for their first year of college.

It takes students years of hard work to make it to college and it takes time to adjust once they arrive. Emotionally supporting high school seniors as they fly from the nest to the college dorm can help them not only survive, but thrive. •

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Not Your Parents’

Trade Program

By Shelley Murphy

Last August, Capistrano Unified School District’s Regional Occupational Program (ROP) shed its decades-old title and adopted the new name, College and Career Advantage (CCA).

The objective of CCA is to provide Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways to all students from kindergarten through high school, leading to college and career success.

“We felt that this name better reflects the highly technical and high value of the program courses today,” said Pati Romo, CUSD executive director of CTE. Established in 1970, ROP classes included wood shop and horticulture. CCA still offers some traditional courses but with a technological twist. Today, the popular Automotive Technology and Repair course includes a new computerized focus that includes industry certifications.

“We have biotechnology and forensics courses that meet the highest growth industries in Orange County. Students have a variety of choices with over 300 sections of CTE offered at the high schools,” said Romo.

To teach students cutting-edge technical skills, Romo said, “we are installing CTE

Patient care and biotechnology are some of the more popular CCS classes amongst students. Photo: Courtesy

Investigation labs at all middle schools over the next two years. We have our first one at Las Flores Middle School.”

Currently, CCA provides a well-rounded education to 7,800 students and boasts a program completion rate of 97 percent.

“Students graduate from high school as college-ready with career skills. Many of them have completed an internship with local businesses and industries such as Kaiser Permanente, Monarch Beach Hotel, CHOC and auto dealers,” said Romo.

The most popular student career pathways are the health sciences, specifically patient care and biotechnology. CCA provides students the exciting experience of handson learning in a job setting. Romo said, “Our dental lab looks and smells like a dentist’s office. The surgical tech lab is an operating room. Do you remember how much you learned at your first job? It’s like that—there’s nothing like it.”

See the CCA website for more information: www.ccadvantage.org. •

AVID:

The San Clemente High School Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) senior class are part of a larger program that prepares students for college. Photo: Courtesy SCHS

Raising Expectations and Increasing Student Success

By Shelley Murphy

Established in 1980, Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) is a global nonprofit organization providing students academic and social support through its college readiness program, designed to increase the number of students enrolling in four-year colleges.

At San Clemente High School, Erin Dollar serves as AVID coordinator and program teacher; she’s also a staff developer for the national AVID Center.

“AVID’s mission is to close the achievement gap by preparing all students, especially those least served in the middle

of the academic spectrum, for college readiness and success in a global society,” said Dollar.

AVID’s four-year program encourages students to enroll in challenging and rigor-

ous courses. The program holds students to high academic, behavioral and character standards; and, they learn to advocate for themselves and take ownership of their education.

“AVID is so great about teaching life skills that truly translate to college, career and life readiness,” said Dollar.

In the past two years, Dollar’s program has grown to over 250 students, becoming the largest AVID program in the school district and boasting a retention rate well above 90 percent. Dollar said student relationships built during the four years are key.

“Students really become a tight-knit family that supports and pushes each other,” she said.

For the past three years, 100 percent of AVID seniors earned acceptance at a fouryear college—although some seniors opt to attend community college instead or lack the necessary financial aid to attend.

“Our seniors have about a 74-80 percent rate of going straight to a four-year college, well above the national average,” said Dollar. “We have students at almost every UC campus, Fordham, Penn State and the list goes on.”

Just like her students, Dollar sets the bar high and said, “This year our goal is for every senior to have two or more college acceptances and a program total over $2.5 million in scholarship and financial aid offers.” •

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The new science building at Saddleback College features modern design and state-of-theart labs for students.

Photos: Victor Carno

Learning LAB

New science building at Saddleback College offers students new learning tools

By Victor Carno

It has been nearly two long years since construction began on the new science building at Saddleback College, but it is finally here and has exceeded most professors’ and students’ expectations. Even though the $67 million project was slated to open in late 2015, it’s certain that most academics did not mind the wait.

“There had been well over five years of planning that went into this project, even before demolition started,” Senior Laboratory Technician Tom Burrows said. “Our last science building didn’t have enough power to support all the computers and machinery we had, so having this state-of-the-art building definitely makes all of our jobs easier.”

The 51,244-square-foot building is equipped with eight lab rooms, 26 laboratory spaces, is Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) approved and

has three floors separating chemistry, biology and physics courses. Some of the added benefits of adding all these classrooms is that professors can now offer more sections of their class so that classes won’t get filled as quickly.

“We have almost double the number of labs as we did in our last building. Not only do we have more classrooms, but we have more instruments for our students to conduct their projects and experiments. We actually just installed a cadaver refrigerator recently,” Burrows said.

Chairman and Biology Instructor Steve Teh explained that the building was all about usability.

“We have research facilities on each floor, lab benches and fume hoods that allows for more experiments,” said Teh. “This whole building is a conducive learning environment, and I’m excited to see what the students will do here.”

We will soon find out what will be done in the building, as this is the first semester where classes are offered in the new science building. The building’s grand opening was Sept. 29, and even the teachers are giddy about the drastic change in buildings.

“There are so many windows. So much natural sun light is allowed in this building, which is a huge change from the last building, where my office didn’t even have one window,” Burrows said. •

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It Takes a Village

South Orange County schools and businesses on their community offerings

Bella Collina San Clemente Bella Collina San Clemente is a private, family-friendly golf club where there are no strangers, just friends you haven’t met yet.

In addition to the scenic 27-hole golf course, designed by legendary tournament champion Gary Player, Bella Collina also offers an active social calendar, where members enjoy wine dinners, concerts, festive holiday celebrations and much more, all year round. In addition to single and family golf memberships, Bella Collina San Clemente offers junior golf memberships for children and social memberships for non-golfers. Whether you’re looking to create lasting memories with your family or a place to escape your busy schedule, Bella Collina San Clemente is the perfect family getaway in your own backyard.

200 Avenida La Pata, San Clemente. 949.333.4830. www.bellacollinasanclemente.com.

Capo Valley Christian Schools The dreams we have for our children are based on hopes for a lifetime of success, happiness and purpose. At Capistrano Valley Christian Schools, we believe the foundations of those dreams are built on a rich academic program coupled with an emphasis on spiritual and moral development. Our students learn through a program that values and develops critical thinking, innovation, creativity and foundational skills to prepare them for life after graduation. As you explore our website, we hope you sense the dynamic learning environment we have created in order to prepare our students for success in all their future endeavors.

CVCS has been serving students from junior kindergarten through high school for more than 40 years.

32032 Del Obispo St., San Juan Capistrano.

949.493.5683. www.cvcs.org.

learning environment that is centered on the value of family. Fully accredited, OLF is blessed with exceptional and dedicated teachers. OLF’s academic rigor is complemented with enriched offerings that include Spanish, Music/Piano, Art, Academic Decathlon, Technology, Choir, Physical Education and Drama. Our students cultivate a zest for life-long learning, develop effective communication skills, and advance as globally responsible citizens.

OLF’s exceptional Transitional Kindergarten, the first year of a two-year academic Kindergarten program, is specifically designed to provide 4 and 5 year olds the “developmental gift of time.” With a cross-curricular approach to instruction, all students experience differentiated opportunities in which to explore, investigate, and integrate their academic abilities. Participation in the PAL Sports League, Extended Day Care, After School Programs, and Homework Clubs round out the OLF school day.

105 N. La Esperanza, San Clemente. 949.492.7320. www.olfschool.net.

Our Savior’s Lutheran School There’s something special going on at Our Savior’s Lutheran School. Dedicated teachers educate and inspire, creating a learning environment in which students excel academically. With small class sizes, a fully accredited school and a highly educated, credentialed teaching staff, students are able to develop their individual gifts and learn who they are—beloved children of God. Parents express their appreciation for the strong academics, and they appreciate even more the emphasis on the Christian value of love for one another. Our Savior’s Lutheran offers preschool through fifth grade with a full-day kindergarten and many enrichment opportunities for children both during and after the school day. Newborn to 3-year-old Parent and Me sessions are offered. We celebrate and honor the diversity of gifts, abilities and backgrounds each child contributes to the school community. All faiths are welcome.

Open enrollment begins Feb. 17.

200 Avenida San Pablo, San Clemente.

949.492.6165. www.oursaviorsschool.net

Our Lady of Fatima Parish School Nurture ~ Encourage ~ Empower OLF School cultivates faith-filled learners who demonstrate attainment of academic excellence, 1:1 technology acquisition, and dedicated service to their community. Visitors to our campus witness the engaging

Santa Margarita Catholic High School With academic tracks tailored to meet the needs of varied learners; more than 85 clubs (Continued)

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The

KEEP CALM AND

CARRY ON

of College Admissions With college acceptance competition and PSAT, ACT and SAT test-taking stress levels high, we reached out to local admissions experts on ways high school students can tackle the college preparation, research and admissions processes with the least amount of resistance. Here’s what they had to say.

Strike a balance.

Find a balance between school work and extracurricular involvement: A student should add rigor appropriately to their curriculum throughout high school to continue to challenge themselves and display their preparation for college-level courses.

Outside of the classroom, a student should find a few activities that they are passionate about and deepen their involvement by taking on leadership positions within the groups they feel most connected to. In college, there will be a lot to balance, between classes and involvement opportunities, so it is smart for a student to start figuring out how they can best manage their time and energy throughout high school.

—Colleen Tuohy, Admission Counselor, Chapman University

Narrow your list.

It’s easy for students to feel building a college list is a daunting task. The fact is, students who invest time into considering their academic talents—along with personal skills and interests—are able to approach select-

ing colleges as a match to be made rather than as a prize to be won. The “match” concept provides a framework for students to be thoughtful about selecting appropriate colleges for their college lists.

—Roland Allen, Director of College Counseling, St. Margaret’s Episcopal School

Do your research.

It is most impressive when a student is able to display that they have taken the time to learn about Chapman University in more ways than just having browsed our website.

If it is offered at the schools a student is applying to, I recommend taking advantage of opportunities to interview. This can be a great time to ask meaningful questions about what the student experience at a particular university is really like, as well as demonstrate interest in the university. The very best way to get an understanding of a university is by touring campus. Family vacations are a great time to tour a school, even if it might not be the one a student is considering most seriously. By touring campuses of different sizes, locations and institution types (public vs. private, for example) a student can better identify what it is that they are truly hoping to get out of their college experience.

—Colleen Tuohy, Admission Counselor, Chapman University

Be authentic.

In terms of completing the application, I encourage my students to see applying to college as a natural evolution of their secondary school experience. Specifically, they have learned to do complex research, express themselves through writing, selfadvocate and speak to adults. These are the same skills students needed when they write effective college applications and interview. I’ve found students who understand these fundamentals present the most authentic voice when they apply to college.

From almost three decades as a college counselor and college admissions officer at highly selective universities, I know that authenticity goes a long way in supporting a positive outcome in the college application process.

—Roland Allen, Director of College Counseling, St. Margaret’s Episcopal School

Colleen Tuohy Admission Counselor, Chapman University

Roland Allen Director of College Counseling, St. Margaret’s Episcopal School

Writing the

Perfect College Essay

By Matt Cortina

The college essay or personal statement is an important part of any prospective collegian’s application. But often, essay prompts leave too much room for self-inflicted writing mistakes. So, we spoke with Patrick Harris, a San Clemente High School guidance counselor and a former essay reader at UCLA, to find out what students can do to improve their essays. The following five tips are born out of what Harris has seen in student essays over the years.

Be Straightforward Harris advises students that one of the key things is to be straightforward with whatever experience they are writing about. He says writers should cross out adjectives and adverbs on shorter essays, and be careful not to waste the words that do make it into the essay. Lastly, Harris says it’s important not to tell the reader anything that’s already in your application.

Don’t List Accomplishments; Pick One and Expand It’s common for students writing essays to want to list all their accomplishments, Harris said. But the best essays use one experience that shows the writer’s values and interests. There are websites and counselors available at CUSD schools to help students identify what experiences are worth sharing, Harris said, as many students have trouble identifying which parts of their stories matter and are most impactful.

Show Your Essay to Someone New Harris says he always tells students to run their essays by people whom the student does not know particularly well, like a college counselor or tutor. Someone not familiar with the writer will be able to help the student identify areas to emphasize or elaborate on. A teacher or academic advisor can also help writers pick out the important parts of their essay.

Reflection and Growth Should Be Evident “There has to be reflection,” Harris said. “Almost every prompt wants the student to reflect on the meaning of what they did. That’s key.”

Harris said although the UC schools’ essay require straightforward—and even non-UC schools, which have room for anecdotes, should be concise—to-the-point responses, there is still the opportunity to show what the writer has learned from their experience.

Use a Positive Tone The tone of the essay should “always be positive and constructive, and never negative,” Harris said. A writer can minimize negativity by showing how he or she overcame an obstacle and learned from it. Pity-gathering should have no role in a college essay, which Harris says does show up sometimes in students’ drafts.

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It Takes a Village (Continued) and activities; competitive, character-building athletics; and an award-winning arts program—all in a nurturing, Christ-centered environment—Santa Margarita students are empowered to grow spiritually, intellectually, socially and morally. Santa Margarita has the distinction of being the county’s only Catholic International Baccalaureate high school and is ranked as the top Catholic high school in the county by www.niche.com and The Washington Post. The school’s beautiful 42-acre campus includes a Digital Media Studio, Eagle Athletic Center, Academic Services Center, modernized Library Media Center, Olympic-sized pool and Sacred Heart Chapel. Recognized as a Microsoft Showcase School, Santa Margarita’s Oneto-One Tablet PC Program provides an immersive educational experience preparing students for college and beyond. The Class of 2016 received $47.3 million in scholarship offers with 99 percent of the class continuing their education at the college level.

22062 Antonio Parkway, Rancho Santa Margarita.

949.766.6000. www.smhs.org.

Shoreline Dental Studio Kristen Ritzau D.D.S. Early and regular dental care is vital to children for both their health care and social confidence. At Shoreline Dental, we help kids keep their bright and healthy smiles by working hard to prevent tooth decay and support overall oral health. We encourage regular cleanings, promote healthy habits at home and offer helpful conservative solutions for patients that may need a bit of work. Whether it is taking a look at that first baby tooth or helping teenagers whiten their teeth for the Senior Prom, Dr. Kristen Ritzau and staff provide nothing but the best care for the entire family. We offer a number of sedation options for kids and adults alike. As someone who grew up in San Clemente and is a mom of a 2-year-old, Dr. Ritzau loves to give back to the community that helped raise her.

122 Avenida Cabrillo, San Clemente. 949.245.6046. info@shorelinedentalstudio.com.

St. Anne School Nurture with care. Teach with creativity. Embrace life. Treasure faith. These are the guiding principles that shape St. Anne School, a private, independent Catholic school that welcomes preschool through eighth grade students of all faiths. St. Anne’s mission is to develop future generations of creative thinkers, innovative problem solvers, effective communicators and emerging leaders, guided by the Catholic faith, to

influence our local and global communities for the greater good.

The St. Anne experience promotes a love of learning through rigorous academic, artistic and athletic programs. With the guidance and dedication of faculty, students gain a solid foundation rooted in problemsolving, collaboration, creative expression, leadership, faith, technology and global citizenship.

We invite you to see for yourself all that St. Anne has to offer. Join us for our Admission Open House on Thursday, Jan. 12 ,from 9-11 a.m. RSVP to admissions@st-anne.org, or call 949.276.6753.

32451 Bear Brand Road, Laguna Niguel.

949.276.6700. www.st-anne.org.

St. Margaret’s Episcopal School Founded in 1979, St. Margaret’s Episcopal School is the premier, independent, collegepreparatory day school in Orange County serving 1,234 students in preschool through grade 12. A vibrant learning community where natural curiosity and academic pursuit flourish, St. Margaret’s educates the hearts and the minds of students to nurture the whole child. Students have unlimited opportunities to discover and explore interests and passions in humanities, STEM, arts, athletics, leadership and service.

The school’s Episcopal identity and mission drive a deep commitment to nurturing the growth and development of every student; who they are today and who they will become tomorrow. This enduring focus on shaping the lives of young people fosters a spirit of compassion, excellence and innovation in every aspect of the St. Margaret’s experience.

The school’s reputation for the depth and quality of its academic program brings more than 150 colleges and universities to campus annually to recruit its graduates.

Boston College, Brown University, Cornell University, Duke University, Emory University, Georgetown University, New York University, University of Notre Dame, University of Pennsylvania, Stanford University and Villanova University are some of the fine institutions that welcomed St. Margaret’s graduates from the Class of 2016 this fall.

St. Margaret’s is situated on a picturesque 22-acre campus nestled in historic San Juan Capistrano, California, with dedicated campuses for each school division, worldclass learning environments and technologies, including a performing arts center, library, science and technology labs, library, athletics fields, gymnasiums and campus commons.

With 2,000 alumni who have matriculated to colleges and universities across the country, St. Margaret’s is a vital member of the San Juan Capistrano community and educational landscape of Southern California.

31641 La Novia, San Juan Capistrano. 949.661.0108 www.smes.org

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Ways to Save

FOR COLLEGE

How to save early and often for your children’s education By Matt Cortina

With college tuition expected to continue its steady climb—pending presidential and legislative changes, of course—and educational expenses skyrocketing, many parents are trying to figure out the best way to pay for their children’s educations. Two popular options for saving funds are the Coverdell Education Savings Account and the 529 Savings Plan. Both offer tax-free or tax-deferred investment options, with tax-free distribution of whatever’s in the account for educational expenses. There are differences between the accounts. Generally speaking, ESAs offer more investment options and can be used for more educational expenditures than 529s, while 529 plans allow for much more money to be invested into the plan. For more information, review the chart outlining basic information about both plans.

COVERDELL EDUCATION SAVINGS ACCOUNT

What Is It?

A Coverdell ESA is a savings account that you can set up at many banks or financial institutions and can be used to pay the qualified education expenses of a designated beneficiary, as in one of your children. The ESA generally allows a lot of investment options, and contributions are made with after-tax money, and there are strict contribution limits for each individual ESA. Withdrawals for qualified education expenses are tax-free, and for the most part, any income or gains made on investments in the ESA is tax-free.

529 SAVINGS ACCOUNT A 529 Savings Plan is a state-run investment accont where earnings grow income tax-deferred and withdrawls are tax-free when spent on qualified educational expenses. Each state has their own 529 plan, which is usually operated by a third-party financial organization. For the most part, residents of any given state can open a plan in any other state, and there are few contribution limits to these plans. Some states allow for 529 contributions to go toward a prepaid tuition plan at participating universities, but California is not one of those states.

What Money Can Be Spent On

Tax-free distributions from the ESA can be spent on “qualified education expenses,” as long as the designation beneficiary of the account was under 18 when the ESA was created. Qualified education expenses include a number of school-related expenditures for both K-12 and college students. These include, generally, tuition and fees, books, supplies, equipment (including technology like computers), expenses for special needs services, and room and board under certain circumstances. It also includes uniforms and tutoring for K-12 students.

Money from 529 plans can be distributed tax-free when used on “qualified education expenses” such as tuition, some room and board fees, books, supplies and equipment including computers, internet access fees, software and more. Special needs students can use 529 funds on additional costs required for enrollment. Crucially, 529 plans cannot be used on K-12 students as they are only reserved for higher education costs.

Annual Contribution Limits

You can only contribute up to $2,000 per year to any given ESA. A person under 18 may only have one ESA in his or her name, but a person may contribute to multiple ESAs. Also anyone, not just the account opener or parent, may contribute to any ESA, but the total contributions from all parties to one ESA may still not exceed $2,000.

Contribution limits vary from state to state, but are generally much higher than ESAs. In California, for instance, a 529 plan has a total contribution limit of $371,000. Although some states allow tax deductions for contributions to a 529 plan, California does not.

ESA holders enjoy a wide variety of investment options. ESAs can be opened by any nymber of banks or IRS-approved entities in the U.S. Generally speaking, ESAs can be invested in anything except collectibles, with the exception of U.S. Treasury coins. This includes mutual funds, stocks, bonds, money market funds and more. Earnings in an ESA grow tax-free.

A variety of investment options are afforded any given state’s 529 plan, but usually plan administrators will offer a selection of options, including index funds, mutual funds and combinations therein. There are basic categories of investment portfolios specific to 529 plans, including age-based investment portfolios, which switches from an aggressive to a conservative investment strategy as the beneficiary gets closer to college age. There’s also a guaranteed option, where the objective is to preserve the money invested in it with little risk. And under tax law, an account holder may only change their investment strategy one time per year.

You may not be able to contribute to an ESA if your income is larger than $110,000 for single filers and $220,000 for joint filers. Also, a beneficiary’s receipt of ESA funds for educational expenses may limit his or her ability to receive financial aid.

There are no income limits for most 529 plans. However, the beneficiary of a 529 plan may be less eligible for financial aid.

Fees vary greatly in ESAs, depending on the financial institution that manages the account. Fees can include start-up costs, per-investment move and more.

Fees are variable and based on the type of 529 plan selected. Some of the fees are collected by the state, and some are collected by the financial institution administering the plan. Some college savings plans will reduce or waive fees if the account balance is large, or the plan owner participates in the state’s plan in which they live—California generally offers lower fees than other states.

Investment Options

Income Limits

Fees

The average cost of tuition and fees for the 2015–2016 school year was:

$32,405 FOR STUDENTS AT PRIVATE COLLEGES

$9,410

FOR STATE RESIDENTS AT PUBLIC COLLEGES

$23,893

FOR OUT-OF-STATE STUDENTS AT PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES

Expected cost per year for public college in 2030 is $45,000, or $180,000 for a 4-year degree.

Expected cost per year for private college in 2030 is $90,000, or $360,000 for a 4-year degree.

Above: According to the College Board. Left: According to the U.S. Department of Education.

On average, parents fund about

50%

of their children’s tuition According to Sallie Mae

GETTING OUT (Cont. from page 8) LIVE MUSIC CRUISE 8-9:30 p.m. Derick and the Daytime Drinkers perform onboard the 95-foot Dana Pride. Full bar includes wine, beer and mixed drinks. Tickets are $22. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point.

888.224.0603. www.danawharf.com

Sunday | 30 OCEAN INSTITUTE WHALE WATCHING CRUISE 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Hop aboard the R/V Sea Explorer to see whales, dolphins, sea lions and more. Tickets are $45 for adults, $35 for seniors and active-duty military and $25 for children. Ocean Institute. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point.

949.496.2274. www.ocean-institute.org.

SOUTH OC BRIDAL EXTRAVAGANZA 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Prospective brides will be able to shop and compare a variety of wedding services. A fashion show, live entertainment and food samples will be offered.

Ocean Institute. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive. www.southocbridalshow.com.

Monday | 31 PUMPKIN SPLASH 2- 5 p.m. Head to the Ole Hanson Beach Club for a floating pumpkin patch, pumpkin games, pumpkin decorating, spook-tacular music and more. This event is suitable for all ages. Proper swim attire is required. 105 W. Avenida Pico, San Clemente. 949.361.8264.

‘WAR OF THE WORLDS’ 8-10 p.m. H.G. Wells’ War of the Worlds broadcast comes to life via the Janus Radio Theatre Players. Tickets are $20.

Camino Real Playhouse. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.489.8082. www.caminorealplayhouse.org.

Tuesday | 01 TINY TOTS: PARENT AND ME PROGRAM 9-10:30 a.m. Children ages 2 and 3, and their parents, are invited to The Ocean Institute to explore shapes, colors and textures with the sea star. Runs every Tuesday until Nov. 8. Cost is $30 for one class, $150 for the whole series.

The Ocean Institute. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. 949.496.2274. www.ocean-institute.org.

ANNUAL HALLOWEEN CANDY BUY-BACK 3-5 p.m. Trade in excess or unwanted Halloween candy and get $1 per pound.

Children under 14 are eligible, and must be accompanied by a parent. Buy-back presented by Nguyen Orthodontics.

24661 Del Prado, Suite 1, Dana Point.

949.661.5882. www.lagunadanabraces.com.

Dana Point Times October 28-November 3, 2016

HCG MEDICAL WEIGHT LOSS CLASS 6-7 p.m. Join Dr. Helene Pulnik, ND, for this weight loss class. Class is free. 24865 Del Prado Ave., Dana Point. 949.416.4670.

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

Wednesday |02 LEARN TO PLAY BRIDGE 9-11:30 a.m. Bring a friend or come by yourself to learn bridge. People age 9-99 are welcome. South Orange County Bridge Center. 31461 Rancho Viejo Road, Suite 205, San Juan Capistrano. www.danaharborbridgecenter.org.

Photo: Courtesy

On Stage at the Coach House: Three Dog Night

Thursday | 03

BY MATT CORTINA, DANA POINT TIMES

J

AUTUMN NIGHTS JAZZ SERIES 7-9:30 p.m. The Casino San Clemente hosts the third installment of their seasonal jazz series. Tickets are $7 online, $10 at the door. 140 W. Avenida Pico, San Clemente. 949.369.6600. www.casinoautumnnights.brownpapertickets.com.

HISTORICAL LECTURE ON GASPAR DE PORTOLA 7:30 p.m. The Ocean Institute offers a presentation on Gaspar de Portola, the first governor of California, by Dr. Milt McMenamin, a professional lecturer, historian and actor. Cost is $6 and includes light refreshments. Ocean Institute. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point.

949.496.2274. www.ocean-institute.org.

Friday | 04 MISSION ART WALK 11 a.m. A docent-guided tour highlighting the art collection of rare paintings related to the Mission’s history. 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano.

949.234.1300. www.missionsjc.com.

about emotions, which don’t have a shelflife, which don’t get old. Our songs are about … having fun, having a good time.”

Hutton said the band’s catalog remains relevant not only because of their universal message, but because they’re well crafted.

“They have great choruses,” he said.

“The hardest thing to write is to write a hook. That’s why music is called music, and is not called poetry. The feeling when you hear a song, there’s this one moment in a song when this magical thing comes together.”

Grab ahold of that feeling at The Coach House on Nov. 5 at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $79 and are available at www.thecoachhouse.com. DP

At the Movies: ‘Ouija’ Sequel from an ‘Origin of Evil’

BY MEGAN BIANCO, DANA POINT TIMES

V

SAN CLEMENTE MILITARY FAMILY OUTREACH’S FALL FUNDRAISER 6-9 p.m. Honor service members and their families at a fundraising dinner with music, silent auction items and more. Cost is $60 per person, and all proceeds support the Outreach’s annual Thanksgiving turkey giveaway to military members and their families. Talega Golf Club. 990 Avenida Talega, San Clemente. 949.388.2812. www.militaryfamilyoutreach.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.

eremiah was a bull frog and Three Dog Night is coming to San Juan Capistrano on Saturday, Nov. 5.

Now, “Joy to the World,” and “Mama Told Me Not to Come,” are not only iconic songs of the early 1970s, but only two of the band’s numerous top-10 hits. In fact, you might be surprised to learn that Three Dog Night recorded more top-10s than any band in history.

Danny Hutton, founder and vocalist of the band, said the songs are still as relevant today as they were more than 40 years ago.

“The songs, I think, have lasted and are still relevant to me anyway, and to most of the audience,” Hutton said. “They’re all

ery rarely does a schlocky cashgrab not only get a sequel, but a sequel that’s twice as good as the original. Earlier this year, it happened with 10 Cloverfield Lane, and now it’s happening again with Ouija: Origin of Evil. The original Ouija (2014) was a forgettable, paint-by-numbers spooky flick that somehow ended up getting a quality horror director, Mike Flanagan of Oculus (2013) and Hush (2016), for Ouija 2.

In 1967, Alice Zander (Elizabeth Reaser) is a fortune teller who uses impressive, secret gimmicks with her daughters, Lina (Annalise Basso) and Doris (Lulu Wilson), to help customers deal with their grief. Alice soon buys a new board game called Ouija that also supposedly speaks to spirits for a new trick. The game not only works, but seems to be spiritually connecting through Doris, who can now hear, see

Page 25

Photo: Justin M. Lubin/2016 Universal Studios

and talk to the dead.

Wisely, Origin of Evil has relatively nothing to do with the first movie, save for the very last scene. Instead, Flanagan takes appropriate cues from The Exorcist (1973) and Poltergeist (1982) to give the film an eerie tone and setting. The film cleverly feels like it was actually filmed in the mid-20th century with vintage title cards and cinematography shot on film.

With no big names in the cast, familiar faces Reaser and Henry Thomas effortlessly hold it together in between wellplaced jump scares. Flanagan shows once again that he knows how to direct horror with mediocre material that would have otherwise been Hasbro product placement. DP www.danapointtimes.com

DP DP LIVING Dana Point

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

Crowning Moment: Dana Hills Grad Competes for Miss California USA Title

BY KRISTINA PRITCHETT, DANA POINT TIMES

A

djusting her sash across her body, Avriel Tomaiko smiles as she talks about her plans for the day. Those plans consist of meeting with her pageant coach, working her job as a nanny and going to the gym.

Tomaiko, a Dana Hills High School graduate and a Laguna Niguel resident, will be one of 120 women vying for Miss California USA in December. Every day, she works toward the goal of becoming Miss California USA and competing in the national competition.

To prepare for the state competition, Tomaiko said she exercises regularly, eats a healthy diet, attends events with her crown and sash, works on her platform, practices her interview questions and practices her walks. That’s on top of working as a nanny and a tennis instructor.

“I’m so excited,” Tomaiko said about the upcoming event. “I’m kind of nervous because I don’t know what to expect.”

She said she uses her mentality from being a tennis player for Dana Hills, then later Saddleback Community College, to help her with her pageant training.

She entered her first pageant over the summer, where she was named Miss Southern Coast USA. She said she began looking into pageant competition a couple of years ago, but wasn’t able to really get into competing until this year.

“It’s something I’ve always wanted to do,” Tomaiko said. “I had an interview a couple of years ago, but it just didn’t work out. This time, I have the time to do it, and I have money to put into it. I’m ready for it.”

That said, the bills pile up, which Tomaiko says has been difficult.

“I’m kind of going shopping a lot,” Tomaiko said. “It’s hard because it’s very

expensive. There’s an entry fee, there’s swimsuits, makeup, gowns, stuff for my hair, the shoes. It’s a lot that goes into it.”

But, she said she’s enjoying every minute of it.

“I wake up and tell myself this is a process and it’s a once in the lifetime journey,” Tomaiko said. “I really am enjoying it, even though it’s a lot more different than I expected. But it’s totally worth it.”

She said she looked into the Miss America Organization but decided Miss USA, which is part of the Miss Universe organization, would be a better fit for her.

“In my opinion, the Miss America pageant was more political, but that’s my opinion,” Tomaiko said. “Miss USA does more with causes that I’m more into.”

Tomaiko said figuring out makeup has been one of the hardest challenges of her preparation. She said she’s still figuring out how to exactly apply certain parts of her makeup, and how she’s going to do her hair.

She recalled when she first met her pageant coach, Giselle Boone, and they had their first makeup session.

“I had two makeup brushes when I met her, so she told me to get out my eyeshadow brush. I said ‘I just use my finger,’” Tomaiko laughed. “I didn’t know you had to have a brush for it. Now, I probably have like 15 and three different colored bronzers. It’s a totally different world.”

She said even learning how to do her hair has been an experience.

“It’s actually really hard for me,” Tomaiko said. “I practice every day.”

Tomaiko said many people think pageant girls are just pretty, and she’s been educating people about what pageants mean.

“I don’t think people really know

BY MYLES MELLOR Last week’s solution:

Dana Point Times October 28-November 3, 2016

Avriel Tomaiko was crowned Miss Southern Coast USA in August, and she will be competing for Miss California USA in December.

Photo: Courtesy of Avriel Tomaiko

Pet of the Week: Woody

Sudoku 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

what it is, and what it takes,” Tomaiko said. “Sometimes people, guys, have this perception that you’re just pretty. It’s more of telling them, educating them, what the pageant stands for, and it’s about what you look like on the inside. There’s just so much more to it than people think.”

Miss California USA has three areas of competition: interview, swimsuit and evening gown. The contestants are judged on character, poise, confidence and personality. In the swimsuit portion, judges look for the contestant’s physical fitness.

“I’m excited for it,” Tomaiko said. She said her fitness routine involves 5 a.m. boot camps, tennis lessons or going to the gym. “I think that I’m doing all that I can to prepare for this.”

She said originally she was going to compete as Miss Laguna Niguel, but when Boone told her of the Miss Southern Coast pageant, she jumped at it.

“She told me the last regional pageant was in three days,” Tomaiko said. “I had been preparing somewhat, but I wasn’t totally prepared, but it worked out.”

She said she had a nightmare the night before she met with the Dana Point Times, but laughed it off.

“I think I’m just nervous, but it’s just hitting me that it’s really real, it’s coming,” Tomaiko said.

For the next few weeks, Tomaiko said she will continue to practice her evening gown and swimsuit walks, practice her interview skills and continue going to the gym.

“It’s nice to represent this area, and I wouldn’t want to represent any other state,” Tomaiko said.

The pageant will be on Dec. 2 at the Terrace Theater in Long Beach. Tickets are available on www.ticketmaster.com. DP

W

See the solution in next week’s issue.

oody is a happy little fluffball who wants nothing more than to be by your side.

Woody is the epitome of lap dogs; he would willingly spend all day cuddled in your lap if you let him. With a truly loyal personality, Woody would make a devoted companion to someone with a little love to share. If you would like to know more about Woody, please call the San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter at 949.492.1617, or visit with him at 221 Avenida Fabricante, San Clemente. DP Page 26

Woody. Photo: San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter

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DP SPORTS & OUTDOORS Dana Point

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Dolphin Report

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, DANA POINT TIMES

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

Tennis Players Claim League Titles The Dana Hills girls tennis team had plenty to be happy about following the South Coast League Individual Finals tournament on Oct. 26.

Dana Hills produced the eventual singles champion, Courtney Swift, and the champion doubles tandem of Caroline Halloran and Drae Fresenius.

Halloran and Fresenius defeated teammates Emilia Gorczyca and Dana Makensen for the doubles title. Halloran and Fresenius won the match 3-6, 6-3, 6-3.

Swift faced off against San Clemente’s top singles player, Lindsay Hung, in the singles championship and won in three sets 7-5, 4-6, 6-3.

The Dolphins will head into the CIF-SS Division 1 Team Championships, and will

field players in the Individual Championship tournament. The team championship brackets will be released on Oct. 31.

Volleyball Sweeps its Way to League Title The Dana Hills girls volleyball team capped off its run through Sea View League play in style, sweeping all four league opponents down the stretch to capture the league title.

Dana Hills (16-8, 8-0 league) recorded four consecutive straight-set sweeps, ending with a 3-0 victory over El Toro on Oct. 24.

The Dolphins will enter the CIF-SS Division 1 Championships with plenty of momentum, having won five straight. The playoff brackets will be released on Oct. 28.

Water Polo Looks to Finish Strong A second-place finish in the South Coast League is well within the grasp of the Dana Hills boys water polo team. After losing another brutally close game against first-place El Toro on Oct. 20, the Dolphins (13-11, 4-2) have second place all but wrapped up.

Dana Hills has lost two matches in league play, both to El Toro (16-8, 5-0), by

a combined two points. In the two teams’ most recent game, at Dana Hills on Oct. 20, the Dolphins held an 8-5 lead at the halfway point, but couldn’t hold on. El Toro rallied to outscore the Dolphins 8-4 down the stretch and emerge with a 13-12 victory. Jack McLaughlin led the Dolphins on offense with five goals, while Adam Cole, James Daugherty and Kaden Likins each scored two goals.

Dana Hills bounced back with a 13-8 league victory over Capistrano Valley on Oct. 25, and was set to host rival San Clemente (12-13, 0-4) on Oct. 27. Results were not available at press time.

Chargers Storm Past Dolphins Football The El Toro football team scored 21 unanswered points in the first quarter of its Sea View League game against Dana Hills on Oct. 21, and cruised to a 56-3 victory.

The Chargers were led by quarterback Cooper Jones, who passed for 271 yards.

Receiver Austin Derrico had a game-high 128 receiving yards and running back Ricky Silva had 121 yards on the ground.

The game marked the third consecutive loss for Dana Hills (1-7, 0-2), and the Dolphins’ three points were their lowest output to-date.

Dana Hills will travel to play Aliso Niguel (2-6, 0-2) on Oct. 28.

Q&A with Champion Golfer Joan Soewondo

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, DANA POINT TIMES

J

oan Soewondo is hoping her experience will pay off in what could be the final golf tournament of her high school career. Soewondo, a senior at Dana Hills, will tee it up again at the CIF-SS Individual Finals at Western Hills Country Club on Nov. 3, having made the cut to advance to the postseason tournament three years running.

Her game is in good shape, and she is primed for another shot at reaching the elusive CIF State Championship tournament, which grants entry to the best nine golfers from the Southern Section.

Soewondo, the reigning South Coast League individual champion, shot a 74 (+3) and finished t-14 at the CIF-SS Indi-

Dana Point Times October 28-November 3, 2016

Senior Joan Soewondo will compete in the CIF-SS Individual Finals for the third time in her career on Nov. 3.

Photo: Steve Breazeale

vidual Regional at Dad Miller Golf Course in Anaheim on Oct. 25. She easily made the cut to advance to the finals, despite playing in tricky course conditions due to the storm that passed through Southern California this week.

The Dana Point Times caught up with Soewondo as she prepares for another

shot at the CIF-SS Finals.

Dana Point Times: You navigated your way through Dad Miller this week and made the cut easily. Are you happy with the round you posted?

Joan Soewondo: Dad Miller played tougher than usual because of the storm.

It wasn’t my best day but it wasn’t my

Page 28

Dana Wharf Fish Count

DANA POINT TIMES

s the weather in the area turns toward winter, here is the latest fish count out of Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching.

A

10/26 • 3 boats; 45 anglers: 81 rockfish, 45 vermilion rockfish, 22 whitefish, 18 calico bass, 15 sand dabs, 6 bonito, 6 sheephead, 5 sand bass, 1 boccacio.

10/25 • 3 boats; 53 anglers: 138 rockfish, 45 vermilion rockfish, 45 sand dabs, 11 calico bass, 2 bonito, 2 sheephead, 2 whitefish, 1 sand bass.

10/24 • 3 boats; 66 anglers: 60 vermilion rockfish, 45 rockfish, 22 calico bass, 15 yellowtail, 15 sand dabs, 2 sand bass, 2 halfmoon perch, 1 boccacio.

10/23 • 7 boats; 225 anglers: 286 whitefish, 180 sand dabs, 82 rockfish, 78 calico bass, 43 bonito, 37 vermilion rockfish, 22 sheephead, 11 sand bass, 11 blue perch, 7 yellowfin tuna, 4 yellowtail, 1 dorado, 1 barracuda.

10/22 • 4 boats; 124 anglers: 89 rockfish, 50 vermilion rockfish, 25 calico bass, 11 sheephead, 9 boccacio, 3 sand bass.

worst. I struggled through the first couple holes, but luckily my coach kept me thinking positive and believing that I could turn my round around, which I ended up doing. My score put me in a good spot to make the cut and that was the ultimate goal.

DPT: How big of a role will your experience play next week when you tee it up?

JS: I think my experience will definitely help me next week, especially since I have played the course in the past CIF-SS tournaments. However, there will always be new challenges that make it different from last year. There will be new players in the field, different weather, and changes in the conditions of the course. So I’m just preparing to play my game.

DPT: You’ve had another successful year, both as an individual and with your team. What would you say has been your biggest strength this season?

JS: I think my biggest strength this year was having more confidence in my game. I think this comes from playing in highly competitive tournaments in the offseason as well as playing consistently through the season. I’ve been working on trying to think more positively through the good and bad days. www.danapointtimes.com

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Page 29

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DP DP SURF Dana Point

DP SURF IS PRESENTED BY:

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

Art Brewer and Surfing’s Divine Prince of Decadence How a Dana Point surf photographer stumbled into one of surfing’s most eccentric personalities and came to tell the story 40 years later

SURF FORECAST Water Temperature: 61-65 degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: Local: 5-10’ Fair Catalina: 15-20’ Fair-Good Outlook: Small to locally fun size blend of WNW and SSW swell through the weekend, keeping things rideable but mainly under shoulder high. Morning winds are light. Be sure to check the full premium forecast on Surfline for more details and the longer range outlook.

GROM OF THE WEEK

JETT SCHILLING

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

Bunker Spreckels in a shot by Art Brewer. Photo: Art Brewer

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

I

f surfing ever had a rock star, it was Bunker Spreckels. Born into L.A.’s upper crust, stepson of Clark Gable, heir to the Spreckels Sugar fortune, he had it all. Like Jimi Hendrix, Jim Morrison and Janis Joplin, Spreckels died young when he was only 27 years old, but unlike the stage, surfing was his vehicle of choice.

Since his passing in 1977, Spreckels’ story was largely lost to the sands of time, but a new documentary, aptly titled Bunker77, unearths a radical tale of one of surfing’s most eccentric characters. A linchpin in the telling of Spreckels’ tale is Dana Point’s Art Brewer. A legend in the field of surf photography, Brewer first came to know Spreckels while the two were on the North Shore of Oahu in 1969.

“The whole thing started in ’69,” said Brewer. “That was when I met Bunker for the first time and shot a roll of film of him on and around the beach at Pipeline. He was 19 when I met him, and I was 18.”

Several years later, again on the North Shore of Oahu, they reconnected.

“I ran into him again at the end of ’73 and into ’74,” continued Brewer. “He came by a friend’s house and asked me if I wanted to surf and shoot a few photos. So we went and rode some waves at Rocky Right’s.”

That led to an invitation from Spreckels for Brewer to join him on Kauai for an impromptu, inter-island surf trip. Mission complete, a life-altering, wildcard invitation from Spreckels soon followed.

“Bunker asks me, ‘You ever thought of going to South Africa?’ And I said, ‘Yeah, I always thought of it, but have never had the opportunity or the money.’

“Then about three months later I get a phone call from him asking me if I had a passport. I told him I did, and he said, ‘Well, grab it and meet me in Town [Honolulu].’”

Dana Point Times October 28-November 3, 2016

Dana Point photographer Art Brewer helps tell the story of Bunker Spreckels in a new documentary.

Photo: Eric Minh Swenson

Bunker Spreckels in a shot by Art Brewer.

Photo: Art Brewer

At the PanAm office in Honolulu, Spreckels purchased round-trip airline tickets to South Africa for himself, his girlfriend, Ellie, and Brewer, who was tasked with photographing whatever kind of madness happened to ensue. The crew set off in the spring of ’74.

“Landing in London, Bunker knew that Steve Miller and his band was over there,” remembered Brewer. “Steve was a friend of his from L.A., and Pink Floyd was playing with him out in the countryside at this music festival. So we took a limo out there and visited with Steve as he was doing his sound check. The guys from Pink Floyd were hanging around. It was a good start to the trip, but also a good indication that things might get weird.”

And things certainly did get weird. After a turbulent stint in Durban, that included being chased by an angry mob and shooting out stop lights, they headed to Jeffreys Bay, which at the time was a tiny surf outpost in the middle of nowhere. After nearly two months of perfect point waves and crazy parties, Brewer reached wits end. After one particularly fiery argument, Spreckels pulled a 25-caliber handgun on Brewer.

“So I go, ‘Go ahead and shoot me… If

you’re going to shoot me, then shoot me!’

“Then Tony van den Heuvel [a South African surfing icon] tackles me just as a bullet flies over my head and ricochet’s off the wall behind me. That was it. He disappeared, and I didn’t see him for a week. He eventually came back, apologized and told me it was a misunderstanding.”

Spreckels, Ellie and Brewer eventually made it back to L.A. in one piece and quickly went their separate ways. Spreckels died in ’77 as a result of a drug overdose.

His story was more or less forgotten about until Brewer and writer C.R. Stecyk III published the now sold-out book Bunker Spreckels. Surfing’s Divine Prince of Decadence in 2007. Following the success of the book, Brewer and Stecyk unearthed old audio interviews and Super 8 footage of Spreckels from the trip to South Africa. The new documentary film is comprised largely of this “lost” footage that’s been quietly tucked away in Brewer’s studio in Dana Point for nearly 40 years.

“All he wanted me to do was to come along and take pictures,” said Brewer. “I wasn’t being paid, I was just going along to take pictures. There really wasn’t anything specific about it, it was a funny little show.”

DP

Page 30

J

ust because summer’s over doesn’t mean the surf season’s slowed down— and that goes double for Jett Schilling.

As school swung back into session and the local waters enjoyed considerably lighter crowds, Schilling got to work. He started off his run with a very respectable third place finish at the RVCA Pro Junior in Newport Beach. Thanks to a healthy dose of tropical south swell, the conditions were pumping and the San Clemente goofy-foot capitalized in a big way.

Schilling then kicked off October with a solid showing at the Surfing America Prime contest held in playful, three-foot point surf at Church. The 13-year-old managed to make the semifinals of the Under 18 division, and did one better in the Under 16s where he placed third in the final.

Unrelenting in his pursuit of surfing glory, the following weekend, Schilling was rocking and rolling at the Seaside Open, where he made the finals in both the Men’s and Junior’s divisions.

Schilling may not have topped any podiums in the last month, but considering that he was surfing at a level well beyond his years, the experience surely outweighs the results. It’s only a matter of time before his name starts showing up in a lot more headlines. DP

Jett Schilling. Photo: Courtesy

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