February 17, 2017

LO C A L

N EWS

February 17-23, 2017

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Dana Wharf, R.H. Dana Team up for Whale Watching Excursion PAGE 3 VOLUME 10, ISSUE 7

Witty Knitters

Local women make blankets for Camp Pendleton residents E Y E O N D P/ PAG E 5

Jessie Strike-McClelland works on a blanket for the San Clemente Knit Wits, a group that donates items to Camp Pendleton families. Photo: Eric Heinz

Finance Review Committee Members Selected by Council EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

Local Couple Faces New Challenge after 59 Years of Marriage DP LIVING/PAGE 11

www.danapointtimes.com

Water Polo Channeling Late-Season Success in Preparation for Playoffs SPORTS/PAGE 12

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she wasn’t going to “micromanage.”

The committee will meet once a month, unless four members vote to meet less often.

WHAT’S NEXT: There was a consensus from the Council to direct the committee members to meet with staff and for them to decide on their procedures and their mission and return to the Council by March 7. —KP

Five things Dana Point should know this week Dana Wharf, R.H. Dana Team up for School-Wide Whale Watching Trip THE LATEST: For the second year in a row, Dana Wharf gave R.H. Dana Elementary School students a morning to remember after inviting the school to go on a whale watching trip.

Donna Kalez, owner of Dana Wharf, said her father, Don Hansen, invited members of R.H. Dana to attend a trip after the school’s 50th anniversary.

“It’s such a great experience for the students,” said Christina Portillo, principal at R.H. Dana.

In the classrooms, teachers have taught students about whales, their anatomy, marine life and more, and on Wednesday, the students were able to see some of those lessons up close.

WHAT’S NEXT: The students will be walking in the Festival of Whales parade and will use Wednesday’s trip in their upcoming writing assignments or projects —Kristina Pritchett

South Coast Water District Directors Vote to Review Survey Results Individually THE LATEST: During the next South Coast Water District meeting, directors will discuss a task order that concerns slant well modeling.

During the Engineering and Operations meeting on Feb. 13, Directors Rick Erkeneff and Bill Green voted in favor of forwarding the task order, which can total up to $260,000, to the Board of Directors for consideration.

According to the staff report, the results from the offshore geophysical survey done via sonar mapping at Doheny State Beach indicated potential areas for locating slant wells east of the mouth of the San Juan Creek. Analyses are needed to refine the San Juan Basic Focused Model by incorporating the sonar data, exploratory borings and assessing the impacts from pumping slant wells located east of the Basin.

The work includes: focused evaluation of geophysical data; validation of explorDana Point Times February 17-23, 2017

Planning Commission Approves Project Waiver for New Restaurant

Bonny Pitkin, a fifth-grade teacher at R.H. Dana Elementary, talks to one of her students during a whale watching trip with Dana Wharf on Wednesday, Feb. 15. Photo: Kristina Pritchett

atory borings; refinement and re-calibration of the San Juan Basin Groundwater Model; and more.

During a special board meeting on Feb. 13, the directors approved to have three separate meetings regarding research results. The results will be separated into a Value for Money analysis, which could be done at the end of March, the South Coast Water District water reliability study around May, and workshop no. 5, regarding the methods of delivery, which has yet to be scheduled.

“We have so much to digest,” Green said. “Let’s just take a look at the Value for Money and see where we are with that.”

WHAT’S NEXT: The board agreed and Erkeneff added it would be better for transparency’s sake to discuss everything separately. —KP

Finance Review Committee Members Selected by Council THE LATEST: Five Dana Point residents were named to the Council’s revamped finance review committee, according to a staff report.

For the committee, Toni Nelson was selected by Debra Lewis, Lester Hill by Paul Wyatt, Gordon Roth by Joe Muller, Lawrence Rolapp by John Tomlinson and Gregory Wall by Richard Viczorek.

At the Jan. 17 Council meeting, the staff

was directed to draft a resolution to amend the selection process and purpose of the city’s existing finance review committee.

Now, the group will serve as public and financial watchdogs and submit reports to the Council.

The five members selected must live in the city full-time and may serve on the committee as long as the Council member that selected them is serving their term.

Council members did not have to approve other members’ selections.

According to a staff report, the committee will be given access to financial information in order to carry out the committee’s purpose, other than attorney-client privileged information, at least a week before its regularly scheduled meetings.

When asked if the committee members had to have any other requirements to serve, City Clerk Kathy Ward said she didn’t see any requirements in the Jan. 17 agenda minutes.

Tomlinson said he didn’t know all of the people on the committee personally and wanted to know some background information on them.

“We’re asking them to review some sensitive information,” Tomlinson said.

Lewis commented that when the Council approved of the committee, they agreed that each Council member could select their own people—Tomlinson said he wasn’t disagreeing with that.

“I would like to see them get going; we need to do budgets and I want information,” Lewis said and later added that they were selected for their expertise and that

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THE LATEST: Planning Commissioners approved a de minimis project waiver to permit an addition on a building to accomodate a new restaurant in the city.

During its Feb. 13 meeting, Planning Commission voted four to zero; Commissioner April O’Connor was not in attendance, in favor of an application for an addition of 764 square feet to establish a new restaurant in the Lantern District.

According to the staff report, the restaurant will be on the first floor of an existing building and will add 764 square feet to the ground floor to fill an existing void in the building. The void used to be a driveway and primary access to the site, and right-ofway improvements from Town Center no longer permit entrance from that area.

WHAT’S NEXT: The space will feature an outdoor dining area along Del Prado. To see the report, visit www.danapointtimes. com. —KP

Council Approves Joint Meeting with Planning Commission to Discuss Parking THE LATEST: The City Council will hold a joint workshop with the Planning Commission to discuss parking policies for the city and the Lantern District.

In January, members of the public spoke in regards to concerns they had about commercial spillover into residential neighborhoods from the Lantern District.

There were also concerns raised by Council members regarding Doheny Village updates.

Mayor Debra Lewis said she was excited about a joint meeting to discuss those issues. Councilman Joe Muller said it will be important to discuss Doheny Village so issues that arose from the Lantern District don’t get repeated.

WHAT’S NEXT: Since the Council approved of the meeting, the city staff will work on a budget and a timeline to schedule the workshop. —KP www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

Community Meetings SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18

Bulky Item Drop-Off

7:30 a.m. Residents can drop off bulky items for free including appliances, furniture, e-waste, green waste and more.

Dana Hills High School and Palisades Elementary School. 949.248.3571. janderson@danapoint.org.

A Walk through History

9 a.m. The walk focuses on local Dana Point History. Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center. 34558 Scenic Drive, Dana Point. RSVP to dpnaturalresources@danapoint.org or call 949.248.3527.

St. Valentine’s Day Love Your Beach Cleanup

9 a.m. Head to Doheny to give “love” to the sands while picking up trash from the winter rains. Meet at the lifeguard headquarters and bring some working gloves. Doheny State Beach. 25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point.

Farmer’s Market

9 a.m. Every Saturday there will be fresh produce and treats for sale at the Farmers Market. La Plaza Park. 34111 La Plaza, Dana Point.

949.279.3122.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 20

City Offices Closed for President’s Day TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 21

City Council

6 p.m. Council will meet in Council Chambers after closed session. Dana Point City Hall. 33282 Street of the Golden Lantern, Dana Point. The agenda will be available at 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.

Coastmasters (Toastmaster’s)

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. www.coastmasters.org.

Dana Point Times February 17-23, 2017

NEWS BITES COMPILED BY KRISTINA PRITCHETT

Dana Hills Robotics Team to Hold Fundraiser The Dana Hills High School robotics team will hold their first fundraising and recruiting dinner on Feb. 25 at 6 p.m. at Bistro K, located at 30100 Town Center Drive, Laguna Niguel. Bistro K will donate 20 percent of all proceeds to the team.

Attendees can learn more about the team, see a live demonstration and enter a raffle for a chance to win prizes.

For more information, contact Caryn Rinaldini at caryn@carynr.com or call 949.280.9777.

ArtFest Seeks Artists for Upcoming Show The fourth Dana Point ArtFest is seeking artists for their upcoming event.

More than 80 artists will be featured with unique booths along Del Prado between Ruby Lantern and Old Golden Lantern.

Organizers of the event are seeking applications from artists of all fine art mediums including sculpture, ceramics, art glass, jewelry, painting, drawing, photography, woodworking and metalwork.

The selection committee is looking for unique and original artwork of their own design and execution and will base the

DP Sheriff’s Blotter

South Orange County Women Honored for Charity Work The Laguna chapter of the National Charity League hosted its 28th annual Debutante Ball at the Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel in December, where 18 South Orange County women were honored for their philanthropic and league service.

This year’s class volunteered more than 6,000 hours in local communities during their time with the NCL Laguna. The women have had six years of commitment to serving the surrounding local communities, beginning when they were in seventh grade.

The Debutante Ball serves as a homecoming for the class of 2016 as the young women returned from college.

The honorees that attended Dana Hills High School were Megan McKim and Natalie LaRocca. The remaining women include Carissa Adams, Taylor Beard, Madison Bourke, Nicole Bourke, Sarah Duncan, Allison Fellenzer, Sarah Gencarella, Kayla Jahangiri, McKenzie Marks,

TRAFFIC ACCIDENT-NON INJURY Via California/Via Canon (12:05 p.m.) A vehicle struck a pole.

RECKLESS DRIVING Galleon Way/Cortes Drive (5:23 a.m.) A vehicle was seen speeding up and down the street.

COMPILED BY STAFF

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.

Monday, February 13 BRANDISHING A WEAPON Pacific Coast Highway, 34200 Block (11:15 p.m.) A man reportedly pulled a knife on a customer.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Monarch Bay Plaza, 0 Block (10:01 p.m.)

Police were called for a woman reportedly trying to steal Champagne by stuffing the bottles into bags. The woman was stopped and escorted out of the store.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Pacific Coast Highway, 34300 Block (6:29 p.m.)

Police were told a man poured gasoline in the bathroom.

reviews on specific artistic criteria, emphasizing the high levels of creativity and technical competence.

To submit work, applicants must present photos or their online portfolio by emailing dpartfest@gmail.com.

The event is scheduled for Sunday, May 21 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. For more information, visit www.danapointchamber.com/events.

Sunday, February 12 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Pacific Coast Highway/Del Obispo Street (10:16 p.m.) Police were called for two men reportedly trying to get into the old hotel.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Street of the Golden Lantern, 34400 Block (6:46 p.m.)

Police were called for a vehicle that was seen parked for more than three hours with its lights on and the engine running.

The caller said there was a cellphone on the front seat.

PETTY THEFT Brideport Street, 0 Block (5:12 p.m.) A caller said a person jumped onto their porch and took their bike.

Saturday, February 11 SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Street of the Blue Lantern, 34300 Block (11:17 p.m.)

Police were called for a man playing loud

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Katie McCombs, Hollis Parker, Kendall Robison, Karina Sanchez, Tessa Saxe, Melanie Traylor and Lauren Walker.

For more information regarding the NCL, visit www.nationalcharityleague.org.

Historical Society to Host Two Guest Speakers during Upcoming Event The Dana Point Historical Society will feature two special guests as well as historical anecdotes from a board member on Wednesday, Feb. 22.

Filmmaker John Underwood will present his plans for a documentary about the history of the California coast and Richard Henry Dana, Jr. The society will work with Underwood on this project, which is still in the development stage.

Julian Miller, a technology consultant, will discuss ideas for implementing a selfguided smartphone walking tour of Dana Point, which will feature historical and commercial aspects.

Bob Minty, the society’s program chair, will share the story of the “Nixon binoculars,” a tale that recounts how he came to own a set of binoculars that were owned

by President Richard Nixon.

The meeting will begin at 7 p.m. in Council Chambers at Dana Point City Hall. A reception at the society’s museum will follow the program.

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

music in his car and was seen throwing a beer can out of the window.

DISTURBANCE Pacific Coast Highway, 34300 Block (8:32 p.m.) A man said he was not happy with the wash and demanded his money back. The caller said he was yelling at them and other customers.

RECKLESS DRIVING Pacific Coast Highway, 34100 Block (7:08 p.m.) Police were called for a driver who almost crashed three times while trying to get out of a parking spot. The caller said when they asked if the driver needed help, they could smell alcohol.

ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY Street of the Copper Lantern, 33800 Block (1:25 p.m.)

A woman said a man approached her and her neighbor dressed in a fireman’s uniform and said he needed to inspect the fire alarms. The woman didn’t let the man in and was requesting for units to make contact and take a report.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE La Cresta Drive/El Encanto Avenue (11:20 a.m.) A caller said they were following a woman who was walking down the street naked. The caller reportedly tried to give her a sweatshirt to cover up with. www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

The San Clemente Knit Wits are made up of women from Dana Point and San Clemente who knit and sew items for families at Camp Pendleton. Photo: Eric Heinz

Witty Knitters Local women make blankets for Camp Pendleton parents

BY KRISTINA PRITCHETT, DANA POINT TIMES

R

eceiving their name from one of the member’s husbands for their knitting skills and their wit, the San Clemente Knit Wits have donated hundreds of blankets, booties, hats and more to parents at Camp Pendleton that are expecting a child.

The Knit Wits began when one of the members of the pool aerobics class at Ole Hanson Beach Club discussed her routine of taking items such as diapers and baby wipes to young couples at Camp Pendleton.

“That’s when we got the idea of making baby blankets,” said Margo Grube, a San Clemente resident and one of the original members.

The group began with ten women who enjoyed knitting and creating items. Their first blankets were made of cotton, and today they mostly use flannel fabrics to knit and crochet afghans and blankets. They also make hats, and sometimes booties, Dana Point Times February 17-23, 2017

to go along with the blankets. Often, the group will add a burp cloth that matches the blanket.

The set then goes inside one of two gallon-sized Ziploc bags along with a thank you note and a prayer for the new family.

But the babies aren’t the only blanket recipients. The group has created knitted caps for Marines, and they sew neck scarves out of camouflage fabric that can be dipped into water to keep their necks cool in hot weather.

Now, the group has 13 members, and they meet twice a week at individuals homes. There are also women who contribute blankets and afghans, as well as fabric, but aren’t able to make it to the meetings.

During the first meeting of February, the group met at San Clemente Villas inside Grube’s home. Laid out were some of the group’s packages, all set to go to the base, while a couple of the members worked on their pieces.

“We have blankets here, yarn balls, booties and little hats,” said Carol Hagdedorn, a Dana Point resident, as she pointed to the bags.

Grube said what began as once-a-year trip with maybe 20 or so items has developed into a quarterly trip with 100 items each time.

“It’s so wonderful because those couples are so young,” Grube said. “They’re so

appreciative of the blankets.”

In Margo’s living room, Hagdedorn pointed to Annette Leinen, a member who joined after reading about the group.

Her contributions have a special message stitched in the middle.

“She tries to make as many as possible read ‘USMC Baby,’” Hagdedorn said of Leinen.

In Leinen’s hands was a red, white and blue crocheted blanket with the lettering.

“I try to make one for every time,” Leinen said. She added, in total, it takes about 20 hours to make but noted she doesn’t work on the blankets for 20 straight hours.

Once the packages are completed, four members head down to the base to give them to the families, Grube said, adding that Hagdedorn takes a photo of the couple with the blanket.

Grube said she really enjoys seeing the photos because she can see how the blankets make the parents happy, especially service members that may not have family from around the area.

“Some of them are from all over the country,” Grube said.

The women will lay out about 20 or 30 of the packages and allow the couples to choose one of the sets. The leftover sets will be saved for the additional classes the base offers.

Hagdedorn said most of the supplies

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come by way of donation. The group has received donations from groups such as the Dana Point 5th Marines Regiment Support Group and the Newport Beach American Legion members. And Hagdedorn said Mike Lipscombe, a retired Marine who lives in Dana Point, “has given us so much.”

Each member of the group brings a different sense of creativity and specialty.

Maureen Wagner, a Capistrano Beach resident, makes hats, and Sam Somerville of San Clemente uses a loom for her items.

“I used to crochet, but my grandma was the one who taught me, and she used to make me do it and I didn’t want to,” Somerville joked. “A lady at my church had this big pile of baby hats and I said, ‘Wow.’ She showed me how to do it, and now I’m hooked.”

Hagdedorn said everything is washable, which she knows is important being a mother herself, but overall she’s happy with what the organization can offer.

“We’re a happy group, and we love to create,” Hagdedorn said. “It’s not an, ‘Oh dear, we have to do this,’ it’s something we all enjoy. Because we’re so close to Camp Pendleton, it’s so special that we can help them because they’ve helped us.”

If interested in learning about the group or donating, email Hagdedorn at miles2ph@cox.net or call 949.606.6749. DP www.danapointtimes.com

DP SOAPBOX Dana Point

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

GUEST OPINION: Dirt Therapy by Marianne Taylor

Connecting in Nature

T

urn off the electronics and find rejuvenation in the great outdoors Why do we feel better when we’re in nature? Our physical and mental connection to nature is greater and more powerful than you think.

We are a product of nature; through thousands of years of adaptation and endless interactions with the natural environment, we are intrinsically linked to a relationship with nature.

A body of research is mounting regarding the positive effects of contact with nature on our physical, emotional and mental DIRT THERAPY

By Marianne well-being.

Taylor One such practice of connecting with nature—known as “forest bathing”—was first introduced in 1982 and encourages people to visit and spend time in forests. When we breathe in fresh air, we breathe in phytoncides (wood essential oils) that have antibacterial and antifungal qualities. Current studies and research suggest spending time outdoors and in forests makes us healthier by supporting

Letters to the Editor

ISSA’S TOWN-HALL CONFERENCE WAS COMBATIVE LESLIE PARKER, San Clemente

No doubt you will get letters defending Darrell Issa’s attitude during his so-called “Town Hall Meeting” over the telephone.

I am writing to support Mary’s viewpoint from the letter published in the Feb. 10-16 edition of the Dana Point Times.

Mr. Issa was dismissive of anyone who did not start their question with praise and congratulations for his recent election victory. If someone expressed concern about an issue that didn’t align with his own opinion, he would abruptly interrupt them with, “What’s your question?” If they sucked up to him, he let them ramble on about their views.

I thought the purpose of a town-hall meeting was to listen to constituents’ views, no matter which “side” they are on. Mr. Issa clearly has no interest in listening to anyone who doesn’t agree with his views. He came Dana Point Times February 17-23, 2017

Residents are invited to join local nonprofit Goin Native on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at noon for a quick lunch and 30-minute power walk.

Photo: Allison Jarrell

increased cerebral blood flow, strengthening immune defense and decreasing stress, anxiety and depression.

Spending time in nature also helps us focus. We are busier than ever with technological advancement and the demands of jobs, family and school. Keeping up with life is sometimes hard to do, but a regular walk in the park or garden will calm the spirit and reduce anxiety and stress.

Studies have also shown that children who spend time in natural outdoor environments have a reduction of fatigue and behavioral outbursts and have better focus. School recess couldn’t be more important—studies show juvenile diabetes rates drop when children spend less time on computers and watching TV and take

close to losing his seat this time and he will likely get a rude awakening come the next election if he doesn’t open his doors and ears to the rest of us.

And for the record, I disagree with Melissa Schoenwald that the letters you publish should stick to “local” issues. Everything that happens in Washington, D.C. affects us here in South Orange County. Please keep publishing the letters that we send you— whatever the topic.

POLICY CHANGES HAVE MADE IT EASIER TO HURT ANIMALS LOBART IKLE, Laguna Beach

As Donald Trump was signing edicts hurting one group after another over the past two weeks, it was only a matter of time before the new president got around to hurting animals—already the most oppressed sentient beings on earth.

The animals’ turn came Feb. 3 by taking down the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) site that reports on government regulation of roughly 9,000 animal handling facilities. These are laboratories, dog breeders, fur farms, circuses, zoos and aquariums.

The site is used every day by animal

to the great outdoors. It’s hard not to burn calories when you’re running around in nature—maybe that’s why our moms kicked us outside when we were acting up inside the house. Running around outside burns calories, reduces stress and lowers cortisol.

Want to feel better? It’s time to connect in nature. Turn off the electronics, get your shoes on and come for a 30-minute power walk at Reata Park and Event Center in San Juan Capistrano. We meet up every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from noon to 12:30 p.m. (weather permitting). Bring a bagged light lunch and take a seat on a park bench and breathe in the phytoncides of the old oak and sycamore trees. Watch your stress melt away and the smile on your face grow.

Check out our list of classes and programs offered weekly at Reata Park and Event Center at www.goinnative.net.

Marianne Taylor, of San Juan Capistrano, is the founder and executive director of Goin Native Therapeutic Gardens, a 501(c)(3) teaching gardening and life skills as a way of empowering, engaging and connecting people. Goin Native focuses on educating local families, special needs adults, seniors, at-risk youth and members of the military. DP PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the DP Times provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the DP Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@danapointtimes.com.

protection activists to monitor government enforcement of the 1966 Animal Welfare Act, the only effective federal law protecting animals.

Taking down the APHIS inspection site is a huge setback for animal protection. It will almost certainly lead to reduced government inspection of animal facilities and more animal suffering—a virtual repeal of the Animal Welfare Act. Ironically, this oppressive act was launched by the same dark-of-night process as that of pulling more than 100,000 visas from thoroughly vetted Muslim immigrants one week earlier—no notice, no hearings, no due process, no public announcement.

The oppressive mindset doesn’t really care who the victims are. Hopefully, the courts will.

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

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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 Jake Howard Debra Holm Tim Trent

Dana Point Times, Vol. 10, Issue 7. The DP Times (www. danapointtimes.com) is published weekly by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the SC Times (www.sanclementetimes. com) and The Capistrano Dispatch (www.thecapistranodispatch.com). Copyright: No articles, illustrations, photographs or other editorial matter or advertisements herein may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, art, photos or negatives. Copyright 2017. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

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LOCALS ONLY BUSINESS LISTINGS ADDICTION RECOVERY TREATMENT

Body Mind Spirit Intensive Outpatient Program

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ASSISTED LIVING HOME FOR ELDERLY

Assisted Senior Home

949.248.9415, www.assistedseniorhome.com

AUTO REPAIR

Dana Point Auto

34342 Coast Hwy., Unit B, 949.496.1086

CAFE - DELI

Coffee Importers Espresso Bar

34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, www.coffeeimporters.com

COFFEE SHOP

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34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, www.coffeeimporters.com

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

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INSURANCE SERVICES

Patricia Powers

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State Farm/Ted Bowersox

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Statefarm/Elaine LaVine

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MUSIC INSTRUCTION

Danman’s Music School

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PET BOUTIQUE

Naked Dog Bistro

424 Forest Ave., LB, 949.715.9900, www.NakedDogBistro.com

SPECIALTY BEAUTY

Amazing Lash Studio

32932 Pacific Coast Hwy., Ste. 9, 949.484.7676, www.AmazingLashStudio.com

WINDOW & DOOR REPLACEMENT

Offshore Construction

877.774.1492, www.offshoreconstruction.org

ICE CREAM

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YOUR BUSINESS HERE! Contact Debra Wells for pricing at 949.589.0892 or email dwells@picketfencemedia.com

DP GETTING OUT Dana Point

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

The List

to create a unique tile wall in the store’s retail space dressing room. Light snacks will be provided, and the event is BYOB. Cost is $25 a tile, and space is limited so reserve your tile ASAP. 34485 Golden Lantern, Dana Point. 949.363.3152. www.iheartyoga.org.

EDITOR’S PICK

What’s going on in and around town this week

COMPILED BY STAFF

LIVE MUSIC: BUNCH OF GUYS 7:30-11 p.m. Listen to live music from the band Bunch of Guys at Iva Lee’s. 555 N. El Camino Real, Suite E, San Clemente.

949.361.2855. www.ivalees.com

Friday | 17 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.

LIVE MUSIC: HANS & JANINE 4 p.m. Join Waterman’s Harbor for live music with Hans & Janine every Friday.

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

LIVE MUSIC: THE CHRIS ANDERSON GROUP 7-10:30 p.m. Listen to live music from The Chris Anderson Group at Iva Lee’s. 555 N. El Camino Real, Suite E, San Clemente.

949.361.2855. www.ivalees.com.

Saturday | 18

LIVE MUSIC: THE SHOWKILLERS 8-11 p.m. Listen to live music from The Showkillers at Barnoa Wine Bar. 831 Via Suerte, Suite 106, San Clemente.

949.388.4378. www.barnoawinebar.com.

Sunday | 19 Photo: Courtesy

TUESDAY, FEB. 21: BATTLE OF THE CHEFS TOURNAMENT 6-9 p.m. Waterman’s Harbor hosts the fourth annual Battle of the Chefs Tournament, where top local chefs compete to create the best paella dish. Guests will get to sample all dishes and vote on the winner. Admission is $25. 34661 Golden Lantern, Dana Point.

949.764.3474. www.watermandp.com.

registration required. 32382 Del Obispo St., San Juan Capistrano. 949.661.6666. www.armstronggarden.com.

VALENTINE’S WHALE WATCHING 8 a.m. Join Capt. Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari for a Valentine’s weekend cruise. The 2.5-hour cruise includes a complimentary mimosa or glass of Champagne. Special also runs Sunday, Feb. 19.

Reservations are requested, and tickets are $65 for adults. 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. 949.488.2828. www.dolphinsafari.com.

FUN FINDING MUSHROOM FUNGI WALK 9 a.m.-noon. Explore the fascinating world of wild mushrooms with amateur mycologist Joanne Schwartz at The Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo. Event is rain or shine—and in fact, rain might produce a wide range of fungal forms and species to spot. Cost is $10 for adults, $5 for children, and free for members. Reserve your spot.

28811 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.489.9778. www.rmvreserve.org.

GARDENING CLASS: GARDENING FOR BEGINNERS 9 a.m. Stop by Armstrong Garden Center for a class on the basics of gardening. No

RAINWATER HARVESTING WORKSHOP 10 a.m. Southern California has received a lot of rain this winter, and the forecast is

calling for more. Why not check out The Ecology Center’s workshop on harvesting rain? You’ll learn how to set up rain barrels and other rain catchment system types. Admission is $30 for non-members, $20 for members. 32701 Alipaz Street, San Juan Capistrano. 949.443.4223. www.theecologycenter.org.

SATURDAYS AT THE SWALLOW’S INN 2:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m. A day of live music kicks off with Family Style at 2:30 p.m., followed by Jimi Nelson at 8:30 p.m. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano.

949.493.3188. www.swallowsinn.com.

PAINTING AND WINE 6-8 p.m. Join iHeartYoga for a night of ceramic tile painting. Each tile will be used

GUIDED NATURE HIKE 8-9:15 a.m. Join an Orange County Parks Ranger for a one-mile hike around Bell Canyon in Caspers Wilderness Park.

Parking is $5, the hike is free. 33401 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano.

949.923.2210. www.ocparks.com/caspers.

BEND AND BREW 11:30 a.m. iHeartYoga holds a Bend & Brew session at Left Coast Brewing Company’s tasting room in San Clemente. It’s a one-hour yoga class followed by a pint of beer. $10. 1245 Puerta Del Sol, San Clemente. 949.363.3152. www.iheartyoga.com.

Monday | 20 FREE GUITAR LESSONS 5-6 p.m. Free beginner level acoustic guitar lessons for middle school to college age youth every Monday. Guitars provided or students can bring their own. 1040 Calle Negocio, San Clemente. 949.388.0114. coamusicarts@gmail.com. www.communityoutreachalliance.com.

At the Movies: Washington and Davis Rebuild ‘Fences’

BY MEGAN BIANCO, DANA POINT TIMES

D

enzel Washington, much like his Philadelphia (1993) co-star Tom Hanks, is beloved by American audiences, and he is one of the last true movie stars who can get people into theater seats just by name association. He can play it safe a lot of the time, but even when he does, Washington still makes an impact on screen. The movie adaptation of August Wilson’s Tony Award-winning play Fences not only recaptures Washington as the lead actor after his success on Broad-

Dana Point Times February 17-23, 2017

way, but it is also his third directing effort.

In 1956 Pittsburgh, the Maxson family learns to accept the fact that the head of the family, Troy (Washington), is stubborn and hostile. His wife, Rose (Viola Davis), pushes for him to be more approachable with his sons Lyons (Russell Hornsby) and Cory (Jovan Adepo) and support their dream careers in music and football. But Troy is stuck in the past and thinks the young should get more practical and traditional jobs, while also hiding a secret from Rose.

Though Washington surprised everyone

by winning the SAG Award for Best Actor a couple weeks ago, Davis has been the one from the cast singled out by awards circles by controversially being lobbied in the Best Supporting Actress category. Both are stellar reprising the roles they portrayed on stage seven years ago, as is the rest of the small cast. Wilson’s script and the actors are ultimately the reason to see the movie. Washington’s direction here isn’t as interesting as it was with Antwone Fisher (2002), and you can see how Fences is more appropriate on stage than screen. DP

Page 8

Photo: Paramount Pictures

www.danapointtimes.com

GETTING OUT

Tuesday | 21 TINY TOTS: PARENT AND ME PROGRAM AT THE OCEAN INSTITUTE 9-10:15 a.m. Children ages 2 and 3 and their parents are invited to the Ocean Institute to explore shapes, colors, textures and more with the sea star. Program runs on six successive Tuesdays until Feb. 21. Each session includes exploration, an animal encounter and an activity. Cost is $30 for a single drop-in class and $150 for the full series. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. 949.496.2274. www. ocean-institute.org.

HALF-PRICE WHALE WATCHING 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. Hop on this two-hour cruise to see dolphins, whales and other marine life in the wild. $22.50. Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point. 949.496.5794. www.danawharf.com.

OPEN MIC NIGHT 6-10 p.m. Singers perform at The Point Restaurant open mic. 34085 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point. 949.464.5700. www.thepointrestaurantandbar.com.

Wednesday | 22 MIXOLOGY UNIVERSITY 7 p.m. Every Wednesday, Waterman’s Harbor bartenders and mixology experts teach guests how to make the restaurant’s cocktails. Guests will have the opportunity to make and taste three cocktails.

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

949.764.3474. www.watermandp.com.

CASA WELLNESS WEDNESDAYS: TEA BLENDING WORKSHOP 7-8 p.m. Learn about the myriad benefits of tea, practice brewing techniques and sample tea blends with Lavender Lounge

THE DISH

Tea Company. Participants will create and take home their own blends. $35. Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens.

415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente.

949.498.2139. www.casaromantica.org.

Thursday | 23 ‘A NIGHT AT THE OSCARS’ 6:30 p.m. Enjoy an exciting evening with hosts Robert Kline and Stephanie Heredia at the Regnecy Theaters as they present a spectacular Oscar Awards pre-party and offer a glimpse behind the scenes of this year’s nominated films and what it takes to win Oscar gold. Admission is $16. 26762 Verdugo Street, San Juan Capistrano. www.facebook.com/westcoastfilmfestival.

COOKING CLASS AT ANTOINE’S CAFE 6:30 p.m. Learn how to make a selection of Italian dishes including Sicilian stewed chicken, squash polenta and baked Italian ricotta cake at Antoine’s Café’s cooking class. Cost is $60 per person. 218 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.492.1763. www.antoinescafe.com.

FREE HCG WEIGHT LOSS INFO CLASS 6:30 p.m. Join Dr. Helene Pulnik, ND, for a class on how you might be able to lose weight with HCG Medical Weight Loss. Call ahead to reserve a space in class. 24865 Del Prado Ave. Dana Point.

949.416.4670.

AVERY BREWING TAP TAKEOVER 7-11 p.m. Boulder-based Avery Brewing takes over Barnoa Wine Bar with a selection of craft beer to sample. 831 Via Suerte, Suite 106, San Clemente.

949.388.4378. www.barnoawinebar.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.

FRENCH DIP AT WHAT A DISH CAFÉ

W

hat a Dish feels quintessentially Southern Californian. Diners eat in the open air, on couches or comfy wooden chairs, in the view of the Harbor. Dishes are pretty and fresh; a man drinks Pellegrino. In fact, like so much around here, it nods to Europe, but puts fresh, local ingredients on a pedestal.

Lunch options include pastas, soups, salads and a long list of sandwiches, ranging from a shrimp po’boy to a short rib slider to a quesadilla. But the allure of the classic French Dip was too hard to pass up this time.

What a Dish’s take on the lunch staple brings together ridiculously tender premium sirloin beef, gruyere cheese, caramelized onions and rosemary in between a chewy loaf of French bread. The au jus to the side is rich, salty and packed with umami. After

Dana Point Times February 17-23, 2017

dipping the sandwich, each bite is pure succulence, with the proud funk of gruyere and savoriness of the beef acting like a warm blanket on a cold day, while the sweet onion and cutting au jus provide just enough balance.

What a Dish Café & Catering 24921 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Suite B100, Dana Point.

949.276.4884. www.whatadishoc.com.

Page 9

DP DP LIVING Dana Point

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

GUEST OPINION: Book Talk by Dan DeNeve and Maggie Villalobos with the Dana Point Library

What to Read This Month: It’s a Mystery

W

ho stole the cookie from the cookie jar? Why, it’s elementary, Watson; it was the butler. Our reviews this month range from the serious mystery to something a bit more unusual and unworldly.

Octobia May is a young girl who has too many questions for a child, much less a girl, of her time. When her Auntie convinces Octobia’s parents to let Octobia live with her, Octobia finds the freedom she needs to discover not only who she is, but if a vampire really does live in the upstairs room of her Auntie’s boarding house. Sharon G. Flake’s Unstoppable Octobia May is set in the 1950s and blends history, race, culture, family and mystery. This book is great for late elementary school students.

It is available at the Dana Point Library.

Older students may find themselves drawn to The Clockwork Scarab by Colleen Gleason. Miss Evaline Stoker, sister of Bram Stoker, and Miss Mina Holmes, niece of Sherlock Holmes, are called upon to solve why one young society girl is dead and another is missing. Oh, and did I mention there are vampires and steampunk elements in this exciting adventure? The Clockwork Scarab is the first of the Stoker & Holmes books. The Dana Point Library has the first two volumes available for borrowing.

With the new season of the BBC’s Sherlock complete, this month is a good time to revisit Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s famous sleuth in print with a copy of The Complete Sherlock Holmes. This tome has it all: more than 40 of the smaller adventures, as well as the longer stories, including: A Study in Scarlet, The Hound of the Baskervilles and The Sign of the Four. Depending on

the edition, this item is either one or two volumes. While many have enjoyed Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman on television, reading the stories is just as enjoyable, especially since many of the stories are referenced in some way in the BBC’s popular drama. While the complete Sherlock Holmes is more than 900 pages, it is well worth the time and effort. There are many reasons Doyle’s work has survived and been enjoyed by countless readers. Although Dana Point Library does not own a copy, we can BOOK TALK place a hold on the book

By Dan DeNeve and have it brought to and Maggie Villalobos the branch.

The Seaside Book Club meets every fourth Monday of the month from 10:30-11:30 a.m. All are welcome. We will be discussing Without Reservations by Alice Steinbach. For a list of future featured titles, call the library at 949.496.5517.

For more information about upcoming events across the Orange County Public Libraries system, visit www.ocpl.org. The site also provides access to online research tools, digital magazines, PDF copies of historical sheet music, ebooks, eaudiobooks, jobseeker resources, and more. DP PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the DP Times provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the DP Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@danapointtimes.com

Pet of the Week: Merlin

M

erlin is a blue-eyed Dutch neutered male rabbit. Merlin was one of several hundred rabbits brought into the OC Shelter from a single residence and then transferred to the San Clemente Dana Point Animal Shelter as part of A Rescue Mission program. Though he can sometimes be a bit shy to start, he’s actually a very sweet bunny who loves getting pets and cuddles. Merlin is a well-mannered rabbit with excellent litter box habits.

If you would like to know more about Merlin, please call the San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter at 949.492.1617, or visit with him at 221 Avenida Fabricante, San Clemente. DP

Dana Point Times February 17-23, 2017

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

Page 10

Sudoku

BY MYLES MELLOR

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

Last week’s solution:

See the solution in next week’s issue.

Photo: Courtesy of Captain Frank Brennan at Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching

SCENE { I N DANA P O I NT }

This time of year, folks in Dana Point, whether on a whale watching trip or

watching from the bluffs, can see a gray whale as they migrate to Mexico. In two weeks, the 46th annual

Festival of Whales is coming to the city and will be

celebrating this journey. To see a video of the whales, visit www.danapointtimes.com.

DP LIVING

Season of Love

“One year I was filming the Super Bowl in New Orleans, and she came out but didn’t stay for the game,” George said.

Dana Point couple discusses a new challenge after 59 years of marriage

wanted to get married “onI Valentine’s Day, but

BY KRISTINA PRITCHETT, DANA POINT TIMES

Jane didn’t want to deal with the crowds.

ike clockwork, George Simpson walks into Aegis of Dana Point around 4 p.m. to see his wife, Jane.

He gets his cup of coffee, brings the newspaper and sits with her for a bit before they have dinner together, just like they have done for years.

Jane moved to Aegis of Dana Point in August 2012 and is part of the Life’s Neighborhood (Memory Care) program. Since then, George has driven from his home on Del Prado to Capistrano Beach to spend time with her before dinner every night.

“I try to come every day around now,” George said as he held Jane’s hand. It was the Thursday before Valentine’s Day and the couple was getting ready to celebrate their 59th anniversary. Around them, a sweetheart table sat near the entrance celebrating the love and weddings of other residents.

“I wanted to get married on Valentine’s

Before Jane moved to Aegis, she suffered from a stroke that has left her in a wheelchair, but George said this is just something with which they’ve learned to deal.

“I take things as they come,” George said. “I don’t get upset about it.”

George said this Valentine’s Day won’t be a big to-do for him and Jane, but that’s OK because they just want to spend time together.

“One of the great parts of the story for me is knowing how difficult it must have been for George to entrust care to us and figure out how to live without his dear wife, Jane, by his side day in, day out,” said Anne Christensen, marketing director for Aegis of Dana Point. “He not only realized very quickly that this wasn’t just about Jane and the care she needed, but he too was welcomed as part of the family.” DP

”

—George Simpson

L

George and June Simpson sitting together at Aegis of Dana Point (in Capistrano Beach). George visits Jane every day and they eat dinner together. Photo: Courtesy of Aegis of Dana Point.

Day, but Jane didn’t want to deal with the crowds,” George said looking at his wife.

“She said, ‘Everyone gets married then, we’re getting married on the 13th.’”

They did just that in 1958. Since then,

they’ve raised four kids together and have 10 grandchildren.

Together they would go camping, out to dinner, and sometimes she would travel with him while he worked for NBC.

DP SPORTS & OUTDOORS Dana Point

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Dolphin Report

were not available at press time.

La Habra’s Emma Zener and Hannah McArthur led the team this season, averaging 10.8 and 12.2 points per game, respectively. McArthur averaged a doubledouble in points scored and rebounds (12.7 per game).

The winner of the Dana Hills-La Habra game will play the winner of LompocMission College Prep in the second round on Feb. 18.

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.

Girls Soccer Handed Tough Task in First Round

Crouse Named Preseason High School All-American Dana Hills senior right-handed pitcher Hans Crouse joined an elite list of high school baseball players this week after being named to Baseball America’s 2017 Preseason High School All-Americans list.

The list features the top players in the country that are expected to excel on the diamond this year and beyond. Last year, 11 of the list’s 13 first-team All-Americans were selected on the first day of the MLB Draft.

Crouse was one of five pitchers selected for the honor, and one of four players from Orange County.

Crouse, who is committed to USC, is coming off a huge summer offseason that saw him pitch for the USA Baseball 18U National Team. Crouse pitched seven shutout innings against Cuba in the COPABE Pan American Championship gold-medal game in Mexico.

Crouse went 5-4 in 13 appearances as a junior at Dana Hills. He held a team-best 1.34 ERA after a team-high 73 innings pitched. Crouse stuck out 96 batters and walked just 21.

Water Polo Channeling Late-Season Success in Preparation for Playoffs The Dana Hills girls water polo team knew that their playoff hopes rested in their own hands. They sat at 2-3 in South Coast League play heading into a Jan. 31 game against Mission Viejo and were in desperate need of a win if they were to keep their postseason chances alive.

The game against the Diablos turned out to be the turning point in the Dolphins’ season.

Dana Hills (16-13) outlasted Mission Viejo in a game that went to triple overtime. The Dolphins ultimately emerged with a 9-8 victory.

The Dolphins kept the momentum going in a 15-8 victory over Trabuco Hills and finished in third place in the league standings, punching their ticket to the playoffs.

Dana Hills was scheduled to travel to play La Cañada in the CIF-SS Division 2 Dana Point Times February 17-23, 2017

Dana Hills senior Hans Crouse was named a Baseball America preseason All-American. Photo: USA Baseball

The good news for the Dana Hills girls soccer team was that they had a strong enough season to earn an at-large berth into the highly competitive CIF-SS Division 1 Championships. The unfortunate news is that the Dolphins drew JSerra, the No. 1 overall seed, in the first round.

The Dolphins and Lions were set to play on Feb. 16. Results were not available at press time.

JSerra entered the game fresh off capturing its first-ever Trinity League title, and was ranked 10th in the nation in the latest Winter FAB 50 high school rankings by www.topdrawersoccer.com.

Dana Hills (7-5-7, 3-4-1) placed fourth in the strong South Coast League.

Wrestlers Head to CIF Tournament

Dana Hills’ Sydney Baba is fifth in Orange County with 115 goals scored this year. Photo: Courtesy

first round on Feb. 16. Results were not available at press time.

As they prepared for the opening round of the playoffs, the Dolphins were channeling the mindset that drove them across the finish line of the regular season.

“The last couple games we knew were a must-win,” coach Carrie Pierce said. “They showed their commitment and resilience when the games got tough. If we can carry that same intensity and desire to push through into the playoffs, I feel confident in our ability to go far.”

The winner of Dana Hills-La Cañada will play the winner of Schurr-Bonita in the Division 2 quarterfinals on Feb. 18.

Senior utility Sydney Baba has had a record-breaking season, and career, at Dana Hills. Baba has scored 115 goals this season, the fi fth-most in Orange County.

She has also tallied 71 steals and 31 assists. Baba’s 71 steals are the 11th-best mark in the county.

This season marked the second consecutive year that Baba has eclipsed the

100-goal threshold, and she is now the school’s all-time leader in goals scored, according to Pierce.

Dolphins Hoops Takes on Highlanders in Playoff Opener The Dana Hills girls basketball team will take on a La Habra team that had to scrap its way into the CIF-SS Division 2-A Championships in a win-or-go-home playin game.

La Habra (17-9, 5-5 league) captured third place in the tightly bunched Freeway after finishing the regular season tied with Sunny Hills. The Highlanders had to play a play-in game against Sunny Hills on Feb. 9 and La Habra answered with a convincing 62-50 win.

The Dolphins (20-6), the second-place squad out of the Sea View League, were scheduled to host La Habra in the first round of the playoffs on Feb. 16. Results

Page 12

The Coast View Athletic Conference tournament draws all of the area wrestling programs under one roof to decide which grapplers will be headed for the CIF-SS Individual Championships on Feb. 17.

The top-5 finishers in each weight class automatically advance to the next stage of competition, while some are named alternates.

The Dana Hills wrestling team had several wrestlers record high finishes at the tournament. Justin Wolcott (138 pounds), Troy Walker (132), Levi Jones (152) and Nathan Jenkins (160) all placed second in their respective weight classes. Kian Abedi (170) placed fourth, Josh Harkey (182) took fi fth and Jesse Villagran (106) placed sixth.

Boys Hoops Closes Season with Win The Dana Hills boys basketball team snapped a six-game losing skid by defeating Laguna Hills 71-60 in a South Coast League game on Feb. 9. It was the final game of the season for the Dolphins (9-17).

Ben Carr led all scorers with 27 points, and he made a game-high four 3-pointers.

Zach Stirtz scored 19 points and Reed Romo scored 10 in the win. www.danapointtimes.com

DP BUSINESS DIRECTORY

DSaan n Cl a em Poenintet

CLASSIFIEDS Submit your classified ad online at www.danapointtimes.com FOR SALE CUSTOM AREA RUGS You pick style, color and size. Typically made in 2 weeks. Stainmaster nylon, wool, polyester or designer carpet. Carpet showroom in Lantern District of Dana Point. Carpet and flooring remnants also available - all shapes, sizes and kinds of flooring. We sell tile too!

Mike 949-240-1545.

GARAGE SALES FORSTER RANCH COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE - SATURDAY MARCH 4, 2017 8am-12 pm. X st’s Camino Vera Cruz and Camino De Los Mares

SERVICES HANDYMAN CHRIS Flat screen TV’s installed, anything Electrical, Plumbing, Finish Carpentry, Drywall Repairs, Mold and Wood Rot issues, Waterproofing, Decks and Patio covers repaired, Doors, Windows, Kitchens and Baths, Water Damage Restoration, Custom Sheet Metal Fabrication and Much More. Phone Chris – 949 510 6645

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE

WOOD DECK REPAIR WIZZARD Wood Rot Repair Certified Specialist, Wood Decks, Balconies, Patio Covers + Outside Stairs Repaired / Replaced, New Decking Systems, All work Guaranteed. Phone Chris -949 510 6645

Call 949.388.7700, ext. 102 or email lloynes@picketfencemedia.com

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

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

949.388.7700 ext. 102 Dana Point Times February 17-23, 2017

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE Call 949.388.7700, ext. 102 or email lloynes@picketfencemedia.com

Page 13

www.danapointtimes.com

DP DP SURF Dana Point

DP SURF IS PRESENTED BY:

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

Marissa Shaw, a former surf team captain at San Clemente High School, is back competing on the waves after receiving her nursing degree. Photo: Courtesy

Back in the Game

After chasing an education, Marissa Shaw is back to chasing waves

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

K

ontiki Beach is a long way from T Street, but for Marissa Shaw, the circuitous road back to pro surfing has led her through the Holy Land. At the end of January, Shaw landed in Netanya, Israel, for the SEAT Pro Netanya, a World Surf League Qualifying Series contest.

Perhaps surprising to everyone but herself, she took second place.

A former team captain on the San Clemente High School surf team, Shaw pursued a job as a city lifeguard after graduating, which then led her into the field of emergency medicine. At San Diego State Univer-

sity, the combination of a full course load and captaining the college surf team placed huge demands on her time. Eventually forced to choose between chasing waves or chasing a career as a registered nurse, she opted to walk away from competitive surfing and hit the books.

“The School of Nursing coursework required an incredible level of dedication and commitment to complete,” said Shaw.

“I would not have the letters ‘RN, BSN’ behind my name without the support of a few key friends and my family.”

With degree in hand, Shaw did the same thing every college graduate tries to do:

get a job. And she did. And for a while she played it straight, but the romance of surfing is hard to fight and the itch to throw on a jersey was too great to resist. After watching girls she grew up competing against thrive on the international level—including women’s world champ Carissa Moore, as well as California standouts Courtney Conlogue and Lakey Peterson—Shaw decided to get back into the game.

“Seeing all the girls I grew up competing with on the CT now is really cool,” said Shaw. “They were 100 percent committed from the start, and it’s inspiring to see where that took them. I know I’m a few years behind them because I did my detour going to school and all that, but I don’t know. It could still happen.”

Of course, it could still happen. Heck, Kelly Slater turned 45 this week and he’s still swinging away. Shaw’s a spry 25 years old. She has plenty of runway left.

“Originally I wanted to get into the Shoe City Pro in Huntington but I couldn’t, so I signed up for here,” she said from the sand in Israel. “My problem for now is not having enough points to get in most contests, so I’m signing up for as many events as possible.”

Chasing WSL points doesn’t come cheap. Plane tickets, accommodations, new boards—they all cost money. As such, Shaw’s willing to put her savings on the line to make it all happen.

“I’m going off of savings and I knew that coming into it,” she said. “Whatever prize money I get goes into it, and I’m trying to be as budget-friendly as possible. It was either take a chance and do this, or just keep going to work every day for the rest of my life.”

Life’s short. Money comes and goes, but as Shaw’s learned, if you don’t take a few chances you may end up relegated to the same commute for the next 30 years. DP

BODHI ADAM

S

ometimes it’s not the final result, but who you beat along the way.

Last week, Griffin Colapinto finished third in the Volcom Pipeline Pro, which is reason enough to celebrate, but considering that he beat a couple of giants of the sport along the way, well, that’s something special.

In the semifinals in tricky Pipeline conditions, Colapinto drew reigning world champion John John Florence; who’s also won the contest multiple times and is considered by most pundits to be the best Pipe surfer on the planet. Needless to say, the odds were not in Colapinto’s favor. In the dying seconds of the heat, Florence maintained a slim lead on Colapinto, but as is so often the case in competitive surfing, in the end it came down to Colapinto being in the right place at the right time. A set steamed through the lineup. Colapinto paddled into a gem, locked into a huge Backdoor barrel and came flying out with the spit. The judges threw him a 7.37 score for the effort, which was enough to upset Florence and earn a spot in the final.

In the end, it was Australian Soli Bailey that took the win, with former world champ Adriano De Souza taking second, Colapinto in third, and onetime Pipe Master Bruce Irons rounding things out in forth. DP

Water Temperature: 57-59 degrees F

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

S

Dana Point Times February 17-23, 2017

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

SURF FORECAST

GROM OF THE WEEK urfing keeps all of us young, which might be why we get so stoked when we see a kid the size of a remote-control surfer jamming down the line.

Meet six-year-old Bodhi Adam. Already a San Clemente regular, he’s been surfing since he was three and a half. His favorite spots include T Street, Middles, and when he wants to escape the confines of the city limits, he knows how to weasel a ride down to Oceanside from his old man, Ryan Aguilar.

“He gets super stoked on dawn patrol sessions with dad, watching John Florence get barreled, and kicking out of a really long wave,” said Aguilar, who’s also an advocate for building a new skatepark in San

Colapinto Finishes Third at Volcom Pipe Pro

Water Visibility and Conditions: Local: 5-7’ Poor-Fair Catalina: 15’ Fair

Photo: Courtesy

Clemente. “He also likes steep drops and looking in pictures to see if his turns got any ‘spit’—what he calls the spray.”

Young Bodhi’s favorite board is a custom shape from local board builder Cole

Simler. And when he’s not in the water, you might find him rolling around on four wheels.

“He gets pretty stoked on skateboarding too,” said Aguilar.

Page 14

Outlook: Decent size west-northwest swell mix has head high to overhead+ (4-7’) surf in the water through the weekend while secondary South swell mixes in. Winds/conditions likely an issue for most areas. Be sure to check the full premium forecast on Surfline for more details and the longer range outlook.

www.danapointtimes.com