February 19, 2016

LO C A L

N EWS

February 19-25, 2016 YO U

C A N

U S E

DP Mourns Loss of WWII Tuskegee Airman Mitch Higginbotham PAGE 3 VOLUME 9, ISSUE 8

One Love, One Lifetime Four senior couples renew their wedding vows the eve of Valentine’s Day E Y E O N D P/ PAG E 7

Pastor Ron Sukut of Cornerstone Community Church presides over a vow renewal ceremony for four senior couples on Feb. 13 at Aegis of Dana Point in Capistrano Beach. Photo: Allison Jarrell

City Council Denies CFD Request

by Developer EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

Planning Commissioner Claus Resigns, Council Moves to Fill Seat EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

www.danapointtimes.com

Sports Updates from Dana Hills High School SPORTS/PAGE 16

YOUR NO. 1 SOURCE FOR LOCAL NEWS, EVENTS, SPORTS AND MORE

DP EYE ON DP Dana Point

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

lished a special tax (Mello-Roos) which would be charged to the future homeowners and could be used to enhance the current design for the park (including a more robust public art presence) fronting PCH as well as for providing an extra source of funding for the Capistrano Unified School District.

Councilmen Joe Muller, Scott Schoeffel and Richard Viczorek voted against the formation of the CFD. The developer answered Viczorek’s questioning of the necessity of a CFD acknowledging it as “not needed” but “preferred and available” per the Mello-Roos Act of 1982.

Five things Dana Point should know this week

Tuskegee Airman, Mitch Higginbotham Dies Feb. 14 THE LATEST: Longtime Dana Point resident and World War II Tuskegee Airman, Mitchell “Mitch” Higginbotham, died on Sunday, Feb. 14 in Rancho Mirage. He was 94 and would have celebrated his 95th birthday on March 2.

A 16-year resident of The Fountains at Sea Bluff, the popular and civically active veteran moved to a nursing home in Rancho Mirage about two years ago to be closer to his brother Robert, also a Tuskegee Airman.

“Mitch was well-thought-of and highly regarded by everyone here at The Fountains,” said Terry Brown, executive director at The Fountains. “He always had a moment for anybody who wanted to talk with him and would never hesitate to have an opinion on any topic, whether politics, the Lakers—which he loved—or his experiences during the war. He was missed from the moment he left Dana Point.”

As a member of the Tuskegee Airmen, the United States’ first all-black aerial combat unit trained in Tuskegee, Alabama at the Tuskegee Institute Airfield, 2nd Lieutenant Higginbotham was one of 450 of the airmen, nicknamed Red Tails, whose service played an early role in breaking down the racial segregation of African Americans in the Armed Forces.

He was assigned to the 477th Bomber Group and served in active duty from 1942 to 1946 and then in the reserves until 1962.

Higginbotham served as a consultant to movie director George Lucas for the 2011 movie, Red Tails, a historical fiction film telling the stories of Tuskegee Airmen. A 1995 HBO movie also chronicled the Red Tails’ story and was promoted with the tagline: “They fought two wars: One against the Nazis abroad/One against racism at home.”

Following WWII, Higginbotham earned a master’s degree in labor relations from the University of Colorado and then went to work at the Urban League of Pittsburg.

He was also employed at the Greater Pittsburgh Airport before relocating to Los Angeles where he worked as an Los Angeles County probation officer until retirement.

“Mitch was a walking piece of history and a hero we in Dana Point were fortunate to have in our midst for so many years,” said friend Pete Hammer. “He will Dana Point Times February 19-25, 2016

WWII Tuskegee Airman and longtime Dana Point resident passed away on Feb. 14 in Rancho Mirage. Higginbotham proudly donned his red Tuskegee Airman jumpsuit for a 2010 interview with the Dana Point Times for a cover story written about him. Photo: Christina Scannapiego

be sorely missed. May Mitch fly high with the angels and rest in peace—my hero.”

Higginbotham is survived by his brother Robert (also a Tuskegee Airman), sister-in-law Margaret and two nephews, Robert and Michael.

WHAT’S NEXT: Higginbotham will be buried at the Tuskegee Airmen Memorial of the Greater Pittsburg Region in the Sewickley Cemetery in his hometown of Sewickley, Pennsylvania. Seven Tuskegee Airmen hailed from Sewickley. Higginbotham will be the first to be buried at the memorial. A formal Tuskegee Memorial service will be held there in May. A private memorial service will also be held in Rancho Mirage.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that donations in memory of Mitchell L. Higginbotham be made to the Tuskegee Airmen National Scholarship Fund, he and his brother helped found. For more information about the fund, call 213.742.9541 or visit www.taisf.org.

FIND OUT MORE: Visit www.danapointtimes.com to read the DP Times’ 2010 cover story profile on Higginbotham.

—Andrea Swayne

sell the Lower Rosan Ranch, a 16.48-acre property north of Stonehill Drive, for years and were planning on selling it through a brokerage. In stark contrast to past offers from big box stores such as Home Depot, staff described Lab Holding’s proposal as “a unique development concept.”

Had it been approved, the agreement would have created a limited term during which negotiations surrounding site plans could have been discussed.

The majority of councilmembers said they prefer a more transparent RFP process for the land rather than a nonbinding agreement with one developer.

Several councilmembers said they looked forward to reviewing multiple creative proposals for the property, including the LAB’s application.

WHAT’S NEXT: City Manager Ben Siegel said staff will develop the proposed process for the land and bring it back for future council consideration. —Allison Jarrell

City Council Denies Developer’s CFD Request

San Juan Rejects LAB Agreement, Expands Search for Lower Rosan Projects THE LATEST: The San Juan Capistrano City Council voted 4-1 on Feb. 16 to reject a proposed agreement with Costa Mesa developer Lab Holding, LLC, to “explore the feasibility” of creating a “unique commercial retail/lifestyle center” on the city’s Lower Rosan property, situated along the Dana Point/San Juan Capistrano border.

City officials have been attempting to

THE LATEST: On Tuesday the City Council voted not to grant a request for the formation of a Doheny Beach Community Facilities District by the developer of a mixed-use development at Pacific Coast Highway and Del Obispo Street.

The CFD was requested by developers Zephyr Partners with the intention to provide funding for public agency fees and public improvements, such as a park, required as part of their permit approval for their condo/retail project at the former mobile home park site.

Councilman Carlos Olvera and Mayor John Tomlinson voted in favor of granting the request which would have estab-

Page 3

WHAT’S NEXT: The park, in its original design, remains a requirement of the granting of permits to the project. –AS

Planning Commissioner Liz Claus Resigns, Council Moves to Fill Seat THE LATEST: City Council voted unanimously on Tuesday to officially accept the resignation of Planning Commissioner Liz Claus.

WHAT’S NEXT: It was decided that the selection process for a new commissioner not be chosen only from among the applicants not selected at the last recruitment but also include a 30-day period opening the vacancy to new applicants. –AS

Town Center Initiative Opponents Speak at City Council Meeting THE LATEST: Although discussion of the City Council’s Feb. 2, 3-2 vote in favor of sponsoring a competing ballot measure to the 2015 Town Center Initiative was not on Tuesday’s agenda, a number of residents spoke out in favor of the city’s initiative: The 2016 Town Center and Public Parking Improvement Measure.

The public comments section of the meeting was a near complete reversal of the Feb. 2 meeting when comments in favor of the Town Center Initiative overwhelmingly outnumbered those against it, roughly a dozen to one. At Tuesday’s meeting the majority of (9-2) speakers praised the city’s competing initiative.

WHAT’S NEXT: Both initiatives will appear on the ballot in the June 7 election.

FIND OUT MORE: For links to both initiatives, as well as the full Town Center Plan, visit www.danapointtimes.com. Video archives of City Council meetings are available on the city’s website at www. danapoint.org. –AS www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

News Next Door

WHAT’S GOING ON IN OUR NEIGHBORING TOWNS

SAN CLEMENTE

Dana Hills Eric Thorpe, then a senior, lent a hand at the 2014 Taste of Dana event. Photo: Jenna Ross

NEWS BITES COMPILED BY ANDREA SWAYNE

Taste of Dana Set for March 31 The Dana Hills High School 2016 Grad Nite Committee presents the 20th annual event from 6 p.m.-9 p.m. on March 31 at Dana Hills High School, 33333 Golden Lantern in Dana Point.

The event will feature food from more than 20 local restaurants, live entertainment, raffles, prizes and a silent auction.

Tickets are $15 in advance or $20 at the door and include unlimited tastes.

Funds raised go toward the production of a safe and sober graduation night celebration for the class of 2016.

For tickets and more information, visit www.tasteofdana.com.

FAM Offering Free Income Tax Preparation Family Assistance Ministries will once again offer free income tax preparation for those who make $60,000 or less through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance, or VITA program.

The service will be available at the FAM Resource Center, 1030 Calle Negocio in San Clemente from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday’s, now thru April 16.

For more information and to set up an appointment call 949.492.8477.

Dana Hills Students Raising Funds for Leukemia and Lymphoma Foundation The Dana Hills High School Student Government Community Service Committee is hosting a “Pennies for Patients” Dana Point Times February 19-25, 2016

fundraiser for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society from March 7 through March 25.

The public is invited to contribute.

A collection box will be placed at the school’s front office at 33333 Golden Lantern.

U.S. Naval Academy Accepting Applications for Summer Programs The United States Naval Academy Summer STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) program is accepting application now through April 15.

The Summer STEM Program is held in three sessions: June 6-11 for incoming ninth graders, June 13-18 for incoming 10th graders and June 20-24 for incoming 11th graders.

The program is an overnight academic program designed for rising students in good academic standing who have a special interest in math and science. The theme for Summer STEM 2016 is “Land, Air and Sea: Exploring Navy Technology on All Fronts.”

Participating students will experience real-life applications of math and science principles through hands-on practical learning.

The program is taught by Naval Academy professors—in professional lab facilities outside the traditional classroom—with the assistance of current academy midshipmen who also act as mentors to students.

A total of 640 students will be admitted. The price of the program is $550, not including transportation to and from the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md. For more information about program and the application process, visit www. usna.edu/admissions/stem.html or call 410.293.1858.

For more information about the Naval Academy, visit: www.usna.edu or the Naval Academy’s Facebook page.

Trolley Application Approved to Include Talega, Vista Hermosa Routes City Council approved spending short of $20,000 to put together a trolley grant program in San Clemente, should the application be approved by Orange County Transportation Authority.

During the meeting on Tuesday, councilmembers said the Friends of San Clemente Foundation would be willing to support half the cost of the grant match.

The original proposed route—known as the “core route”—would have three trolleys serving 10 stops and go through Avenida Del Mar, down to Avenida Victoria, back up northbound El Camino Real and North Beach and then up to the Outlets at San Clemente where it would circle back on a loop.

Initially, Councilman Chris Hamm was adamant about changing the core route because he said the original proposal was not a resident-serving mode of transportation.

Through discussions, the council was able to negotiate a direction for city staff to look at routes that would also serve the communities of Talega and Vista Hermosa and voted 4-1 to apply for the grant program under those conditions.

Mayor Bob Baker, who cast the dissenting vote, said he has not been a proponent of the trolley mode of transportation since the beginning.

“We the tax payers voted in favor of Measure M so we could improve infrastructure, and we’re getting trollies when

we should really be spending the money on bridges and paying for other (necessities),” Baker said. “It’s too much money, and I just don’t want to pay for other people to have fun on a trolley. I want people to fix my roads with this money.”

The due date for the grant application is Feb. 29. If it is accepted, the trolley program would begin on Memorial Day 2017. The city has the opportunity to terminate the program after one year, but if the program does not reach its goal of 10 riders per hour, funding can either be cut by OCTA or terminated altogether. –Eric Heinz

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO Council Contemplates Traffic Signal Where Ortega Narrows Following a City Council majority vote in January to halt the widening of a 0.9-mile segment of Ortega Highway known to many residents and commuters as the “choke point,” City Councilman John Perry and Mayor Pro Tem Kerry Ferguson presented a new proposal at the council’s Feb. 2 meeting for staff to investigate installing a traffic signal at Avenida Siega and Ortega Highway as well as “no parking” zones along the north side of Ortega Highway.

Reasons for the proposal included the “dangerous situation” residents experience when they attempt to enter and exit residential neighborhoods along the highway.

Perry and Ferguson said the traffic would be “pulsed” with a traffic light, “causing gaps in the traffic flow” and “allowing safer entry and exiting along Ortega.”

With a 3-2 vote—Councilmen Sam Allevato and Derek Reeve dissenting—the council directed staff to look into installing the traffic signal and “no parking” zones.

–Allison Jarrell

Signs criticizing the City Council’s decision to not approve the widening of a 0.9-mile stretch of Ortega Highway could be seen along the highway’s “choke point” on Jan. 19. The signs were placed by a local coalition of residents known as Capistrano Forward. Photo: Alex Paris

Page 4

www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

DP Sheriff’s Blotter COMPILED BY ANDREA SWAYNE

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.

Wednesday, February 17 DISTURBANCE Pacific Coast Highway, 34100 Block (1 a.m.) A man in a gray Fiat said he had been beaten up by a friend and two men at his apartment. The man was slurring his words and said he drove to the Chevron station to get away and had left his cell phone at his apartment.

Tuesday, February 16 DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTY Malaga Drive, 33900 Block (11:13 p.m.)

A caller reported a loud party “with lots of yelling.”

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Camino el Molino, 34300 Block (10:48 p.m.) A patrol check was requested at a sober living home when a man was seen grabbing items from the bushes in front of the location and then “smoking crack in a white Ford Ranger.”

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Dana Strand Road, 34300 Block (10:29 p.m.) Two people were seen having sex in the back seat of a gray Honda Civic in the Strand Vista Park parking lot.

BURGLARY REPORT Street of the Copper Lantern, 33800 Block (7:20 p.m.) A man reported being burglarized. The reported loss: “pants and chocolate.”

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE La Cresta Drive, 25000 Block (6:44 p.m.)

A patrol check was requested for two people inside a blue truck parked in a red zone across the street from the caller. The subjects weren’t doing anything, but the caller didn’t feel comfortable with them being parked there “in the weird times that we live in.”

DISTURBANCE Via Sacramento, 26400 Block (3:44 p.m.)

Dana Point Times February 19-25, 2016

A man was seen drinking beer on the preschool playground while two or three kids were climbing on the shed.

DISTURBANCE Dana Point Harbor Drive/Street of the Park Lantern (10:56 a.m.) Homeless people who had set up camp in the park were yelling at each other and a woman in the group pulled her pants down.

Monday, February 15 BURGLARY IN PROGRESS Regatta Way, 0 Block (8:26 p.m.) A house was reportedly being burglarized while the owner was out of town. A caller reported seeing three men using a drill in the garage of the home. During the pursuit, a shirtless suspect with a backpack was seen running from the location.

A 21-year-old man who said he works as a manual laborer was arrested and booked into Central Men’s Jail. Bail was set at $50,000.

Sunday, February 14 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Paseo Corona, 24100 Block (10:16 p.m.)

A patrol check was requested for a black Jaguar parked near the tennis courts and occupied by a man in his 30s wearing a black sweater and black pants. The man was reportedly approaching teenage girls in the area.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Intera Way/De Leon Drive (9:04 p.m.) A surfboard on Intera Way had been there unattended for the entire day. The caller thought it may have been stolen.

TRESPASSING Street of the Golden Lantern, Pacific Coast Highway (5:16 p.m.) Four or five people could be seen possibly trespassing in the Headlands overlooking the Ocean Institute. The caller reported spotting them from Baby Beach.

911 HANGUP-WIRELESS Del Prado Avenue, 24800 Block (5:23 p.m.) A man called saying a driver stopped and asked to use his phone and that someone almost hit him, killed his dog and sideswiped his vehicle. The call dropped and the phone wasn’t working when deputies tried to call back.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Pacific Coast Highway/Del Obispo Street (2:07 p.m.) Someone jammed the elevator door at the pedestrian bridge. The caller thought it was done intentionally and that the elevator was occupied by someone living inside.

911 HANGUP-WIRELESS Seaside Drive, 25600 Block (5:08 a.m.)

A woman asked for a deputy to respond to “tell him to leave me alone so I can go to sleep.” The call disconnected and went

CITIZEN ASSIST Via Santa Rosa, 34200 Block (2:09) A woman said a former friend showed up drunk and kept knocking on her door.

The woman said this is an ongoing issue and although the ex-friend left during the phone call, she asked to discuss the matter with deputies.

PETTY THEFT Beach Road, 33000 Block (12:23 a.m.) A transient stole a bike and took off southbound on Beach Road.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Palo Alto Street, 33500 Block (8:01 p.m.)

A patrol check was requested for a man and a woman in a parked white van. The caller said the subjects were either in a physical fight or having sex.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Doheny Park Road, 34100 Block (10:12 a.m.) A man previously seen urinating on the walls at Donut World was in front of the store asleep at the time of the call.

A 48-year-old man who said he works as a laborer was arrested, jailed, cited and released on Tuesday.

straight to voicemail when deputies called back. The phone was traced to the TMobile subscriber, but no further information was provided.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Del Obispo Street, 34200 Block (5:06 a.m.)

A woman said a transient man told her another transient man, possibly on drugs, told him he had set the bridge on fire but the fire was out.

Saturday, February 13 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES La Plaza/Street of the Golden Lantern (12:10 a.m.) A patrol check was requested for a man who appeared “creepy” and has reportedly been seeing going in and out of women’s restrooms.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Monarch Beach Resort, 0 Block (9:52 p.m.) A woman said someone was pointing a green laser into her residence and into the sky. The woman believed the laser was coming from the hill across from her home.

DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTY La Serena Drive, 34000 Block (8:44 p.m.)

A party was happening somewhere on La Serena with a loud band “blaring a tuba and other brass instruments.”

KEEP THE PEACE Via Verde, 34400 Block (6:29 p.m.) A woman complained that her drunken neighbor’s vehicle was blocking her driveway and he told her he would not move it until she apologized to him.

Page 6

Community Meetings FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19

American Red Cross Blood Drive

10 a.m.-4:15 p.m. The Bloodmobile will be in the library parking lot. Sign up at www. redcrossblood.org using sponsor code “DPL.” Identification is required. Dana Point Library, 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point, 949.496.5517, www.ocpl.org.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 20

Bulky Item Drop Off Event

7:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Residents many drop off unwanted bulky items for free at two Dana Point school sites, instead of taking them to the landfill. E-waste, green waste, large appliances, furniture and other large item that don’t fit into a normal waste container will be accepted. Many of the collected items will be recycles. Goodwill Industries will be on hand to accept charitable donations.

Free document shredding services will also be available. Dana Hills High School, 33333 Golden Lantern and Palisades Elementary School, 26462 Via Sacramento, www.danapoint.org.

Recycling Event at Dana Hills High School

9 a.m.-11 a.m. Residents can drop off plastic bottles and aluminum cans in the school parking lot—near the tennis courts and pool—for students to collect and sort for recycling. Funds collected are distributed by the school’s PTSA for student programs. Collections are held monthly throughout the school year. Future events will be held March 5, March 19, April 2, April 23, May 7 and May 28, rain or shine. For more information, email president@dhhsptsa. com. Dana Hills High School is located at 33333 Golden Lantern in Dana Point.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 22

Planning Commission Meeting

6 p.m. Dana Point City Hall, Council Chamber, 33282 Golden Lantern, 949.248.3500, www.danapoint.org.

TUESDAY, MARCH 1

TBID Meeting

1 p.m.-3 p.m. The Tourism Business Improvement District meets at City Hall, 33282 Golden Lantern, 949.248.3500, www.danapoint.org.

City Council Meeting

6 p.m. Dana Point City Hall, Council Chamber, 33282 Golden Lantern, 949.248.3500, www.danapoint.org. www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

One Love, One Lifetime Four senior couples renew their wedding vows the eve of Valentine’s Day PHOTOS AND STORY BY ALLISON JARRELL, DANA POINT TIMES

A

cool ocean breeze swept across the sun-speckled courtyard Saturday afternoon as romantic ballads plucked on the harp filled the terrace with an air of amor. For four senior couples living in Aegis of Dana Point, the eve of Valentine’s Day was a time of renewed commitment to each other—a time to honor their marriage vows and cherish their love among family and friends.

Saturday’s vow renewal ceremony was hosted by Aegis of Dana Point, a residential assisted living facility for seniors located on Camino de Estrella in Capistrano Beach. Anne Christensen, Aegis marketing director, said the idea for the renewal came in part due to a recent uptick of spouses looking to attain specialized care for their loved ones.

“We all go through big changes in life, but when it’s your love of 50 or 60 years and you have to entrust someone else to care for them, it’s a big deal,” Christensen said. “For the couples with only one spouse living here, this is still like home to them. They’re always here together— we’re a family. So this is our way to give back and say thank you.”

With a floral arch and garden backdrop setting the scene, Pastor Ron Sukut, of Cornerstone Community Church in San Clemente, led each couple through their vows after explaining how the pair met and the path their love has taken over the years.

In one afternoon, 163 years of marriage were renewed with eight “I do’s” and a kiss.

Nestor and Cheryl España Nestor and Cheryl have been happily married for 32 years, and they still remember the exact day they met—both were getting tested for allergies at a doctor’s office. Cheryl said she was initially attracted to Nestor’s pheromones, while Nestor was immediately drawn to the “beautiful woman” with the stunning eyes.

After being injured at work and undergoing numerous surgeries, Nestor said Cheryl has always stood by him “through thick and thin.” Their advice for a lasting relationship? Be patient, be kind and never take an argument to bed.

Cheryl and Nestor España continue to love and support each other afer 38 years of marriage.

George and Jane Simpson As luck would have it, George and Jane were able to renew their vows on the exact day they were married—58 years later.

The young lovebirds took to Las Vegas to get hitched, and George is quick to tell the story of how a half-full bottle of champagne exploded in his Porsche while driving through the desert on their way home—it was a wild ride to say the least.

With Jane now in memory care, George visits his wife daily to care for her.

Hiram and Andrea Harvey have been happily married for 68 years.

Jane and George Simpson renewed their vows after 58 years of marriage on Feb. 13 (their anniversary).

Dana Point Times February 19-25, 2016

Hiram and Andrea Harvey Hiram and Andrea have been married and madly in love for 68 years. Andrea was just 19 and Hiram was 23 when they met at a friend’s wedding—he was the best man and she was the bride’s friend.

Seven months later the two were wed and started their life together in Pacific Palisades. “I loved his big blue eyes and his sweet ways,” Andrea said. “He was the

nicest man I’d ever met.” “Oh my gosh, I liked everything about her!” Hiram said.

“She’s just the most wonderful peach in the world!”

Bill and Corinne Frederick Bill and Corinne have been married for five years, but they’ve known each other for 25. After their respective spouses passed away following longtime marriages, they started seeing each other in the same group of friends, which eventually shrunk in size until they were the only two left. One day, the duo was going to church when Bill began falling and grabbed Corinne to keep from losing his balance. Their fellow churchgoers ended up witnessing Corinne lying on top of Bill in the bushes. “That’s when we decided we ought to get married,” Corinne laughed.

For more on each couple’s story and a full slideshow from Saturday’s event, visit www.danapointtimes.com. DP

Bill and Corinne Frederick renewed their vows after five years of marriage and 25 years of friendship.

Page 7

www.danapointtimes.com

DP SOAPBOX Dana Point

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

GUEST OPINION: Wavelengths by Jim Kempton

Nixon’s Policies Worth Reconsidering in Today’s Chaotic World

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

R

HOW TO REACH US

ichard Millhouse Nixon was a controversial American political figure.

Was he a liberal? Maybe.

Consider this: Facing many of the same problems of America today, Nixon negotiated with enemies, committed to environmental protection and brought American troops home from a long, frustrating war.

He made a peace pact with our arch-enemy, China. The fact that Beijing was openly shipping arms to the North Vietnamese who were killing thousands of American soldiers at the time did not faze the opposition or his own party. That the Chinese were fomenting uprisings in Peru, installing communist dictatorships in Tibet and selling weapons in Uganda were not obstacles to forging a major treaty. The People’s Republic of China (an atheist, nuke-toting, terrorist-supporting communist state) soon beWAVELENGTHS came our largest trading

By Jim Kempton partner and the looming world conflict that had been predicted seemed to evaporate.

Nixon instituted a nuclear treaty with the Soviet Union. No one accused him of caving to a sworn enemy, (the U.S.S.R.) who’s antiSemitism, dislike of Israel and aggressive expansion policies were openly flaunted on the world stage. Unlike today, assisting Kenya with overthrowing the government, training terrorists in Cuba, or supporting anti-Americanism in Egypt did not come up for debate while détente was being reached.

Though imperfect, the nuclear deal he ham-

Letters to the Editor OPPOSE THE 2015 TOWN CENTER INITIATIVE BLAKE DAVIS, Dana Point

I oppose the 2015 Town Center Initiative. This measure would, in effect, end the progress that’s been made to improve Dana Point and finally bring some life to the streets.

We are extremely privileged to live in an absolutely wonderful part of the world; it should be dynamic, lively and bustling.

But instead it’s full of empty lots and vacant storefronts.

Dana Point Times February 19-25, 2016

mered out with the Kremlin allowed Russia and the USA to enjoy an eight-year truce, lowering the hair-trigger brinkmanship that had existed for decades. Would the Chinese and Russian deals he made be similar to our current deal with Iran?

“

...the response to his efforts at international diplomacy and environmental protection contrasts so starkly with the current response to America’s leadership in global challenges that it sometimes seems almost surreal.

”

Early on in his administration Nixon instituted strong environmental policy. He considered civil rights as an important achievement of his administration, which included Title IX equal rights for women.

His welfare and health care programs, (which were in many ways more liberal than those of the current administration) were shot down in Congress, but he still signed the Clean Air Act of 1970. Then in the face of major rivers catching fire from chemical dumping and the Bald Eagle nearing extinction from DDT he established the Environmental Protection Agency. There were no “deniers” for this effort.

Far from restricting voter registration,

Nixon opened the voting age to 18—at a time when most 18-year-olds would have voted against him. Additionally he took the surplus military budget (as Vietnam wound down) and used it for wars on cancer and hunger, improved social welfare services and support for the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. And for the only time since the 1800s, he spent more money on social programs than on defense. Unlike the current political opposition, nobody claimed these policies were trying to ruin Americans’ way of life.

The reminder of Nixon’s achievements is not an apology for his misguided attempt to thwart the legal election process and break dozens of laws that would eventually force his resignation. But the response to his efforts at international diplomacy and environmental protection contrasts so starkly with the current response to America’s leadership in global challenges that it sometimes seems almost surreal.

What his policies illustrate is how far our great nation has swung, when a staunch, unabashedly conservative leader like Nixon looks downright left-wing in today’s America.

Jim Kempton is a surfer and writer from San Clemente who hopes diplomacy will once again be given at least a chance to prevail in global policy. But he knows all too well that Americans’ favorite icons are the Bronc-buster, the bunker buster and the filibuster, not necessarily in that order. 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.

phone 949.388.7700 fax 949.388.9977 www.danapointtimes.com

CITY EDITOR Andrea Swayne, 949.388.7700, x113 aswayne@danapointtimes.com ADVERTISING PRINT AND ONLINE

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

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

PICKET FENCE MEDIA PUBLISHER Norb Garrett

> Susie Lantz (San Clemente)

EDITORIAL

> Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano)

Picket Fence Media Group Senior Editor, City Editor, DP Times > Andrea Swayne

Real Estate Sales Manager > Michele Reddick

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

During the recent high winds, there were (literally) tumbleweeds blowing on my driveway from a nearby parcel on Pacific Coast Highway—just like a ghost town!

We don’t need more unused parking and we don’t need more salons, dry cleaners, surf shops or massage parlors. We don’t need more restaurants to compete with the many restaurants, some of which are struggling, that we now have.

What we need are residents in the Town Center that will frequent the local businesses and bring some vibrancy to the streets. Housing is the one type of real estate that is undeniably in demand in Orange County. Apartments or condos targeted to moderate incomes would be great.

These residents might include down-sizing seniors, young working couples and local business owners.

This type of project could be feasible

if developers have an opportunity for flexibility with regard to parking, density, setbacks, heights, consolidating lots, etc.

These decisions (whether residential or other types of real estate) should be left to the City Council, Planning Commission and city staff.

I support the city’s work. I also support the 2016 Town Center and Public Parking Improvement Initiative as a much better plan than the 2015 Town Center Initiative.

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.

Page 8

ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING PICKET FENCE MEDIA Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes (Dana Point)

OPERATIONS Finance Director > Mike Reed Business Manager > Alyssa Garrett Accounting & Distribution Manager > Tricia Zines SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller Jonathan Volzke CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco Melissa Calvano Evan Da Silva Debra Holm Tim Trent

Dana Point Times, Vol. 9, Issue 8. 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.

FOLLOW THE DANA POINT T IMES

www.danapointtimes.com

DP GETTING OUT Dana Point

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

The List

What’s going on in and around town this week

COMPILED BY STAFF

Friday | 19 MAKE-A-WISH FOUNDATION DANCE-OFF 4 p.m. The students of Shorecliffs Middle School’s Make-A-Wish Foundation project will host the largest “Whip, Nae Nae” dance-off and dance mob at the Outlets at San Clemente to raise funds for a child with a life-threatening illness. People who want to participate can donate $5 to join the fun.

Music will be provided by DJ RICH. For more information, call 949.842.1405 or visit www.wishnaenae.com.

A NIGHT IN HISTORIC MOTOWN 6 p.m.-9 p.m. The Angels for the Arts at Saddleback College presents their second annual Black History Month celebration with “A Night in Historic Motown” in the McKinney Theatre. The student-run fundraiser will transform Saddleback Fine Arts Complex into “Hitsville USA,” with music, dancing and refreshments. Advance-purchase tickets are $25 general admission, $20 seniors and $10 students or $30 at the door. Saddleback College, 28000 Marguerite Parkway, Mission Viejo, 949.582.4656, www.saddleback.edu/arts.

MILLERTIME BOOGIE 7:30-11:30. Live music at Harpoon Henry’s. 34555 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.493.2933, www.windandsearestaurants.com/harpoonhenrys.

TUNE A MELT 8:30 p.m.-midnight. Live music at Brio Tuscany Grille, 24050 Camino Del Avion, Dana Point, 949.443.1476, www.briorestaurant.com.

Saturday | 20 SHOOTING STARS WILDFLOWER WALK 8 a.m.-11 a.m. Local wildflower expert Bob Allen will lead an exploration of The Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo to look for early wildflowers like the Padre Shooting Star. Learn to identify blooms and savor the smells, sights, sounds and beauty of winter. Ages 8 and up. Adults $10, children $5. The Richard and Donna O’Neil Conservancy, call for directions, 949.489.9778, www.rmvreserve.org.

DANA POINT FARMERS MARKET 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Seasonal produce, flowers and much more at La Plaza Park each Saturday. 949.248.3500, www.danapoint.org.

Page 10

DANA POINT HISTORY TOUR 9 a.m.-11:30 a.m. This docent-led walking tour explores the history of the Headlands area. Tours run on the third Saturday of the month and have rotating themes. RSVP to wgintern@danapoint. com or 949.248.3527. Nature Interpretive Center, 34558 Scenic Drive, Dana Point, www.danapoint.org.

PANCAKES AND PJS 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Wake up and join Ms. Kasey as she reads fun stories and hosts a delicious brunch of pancakes and fruit in her PJs. Wear your pajamas if you like. No pre-registration required. Dana Point Library, 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point, 949.496.5517, www.ocpl.org.

KIDS PET PARADE Noon. Families are welcome to dress in costume and bring their furry friends to the annual Kids Pet Parade, presented by the San Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association in Los Rios Park. Registration begins at 10 a.m. and the parade begins at noon.

Each entrant will receive lunch and one free entry to Zoomars Petting Zoo. Ribbons will be awarded to all first- through third-place winners, and the Judges’ Choice Winner will appear in the Swallows Day Parade on March 12. $5 entry fee per category. 31747 Los Rios Street, San Juan Capistrano. For more information, email nathankbanda@yahoo.com or visit www.swallowsparade.org.

MEET THE AUTHOR 1 p.m.-2 p.m. Meet local author Sharyn Jaeger who will discuss her debut crime novel, Deadly Climax, a mystery/thriller/ romance. Walk-ins welcome. Dana Point Library, 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point, 949.496.5517, www.ocpl.org.

THE BOURGEOIS GENTLEMAN 7 p.m. The South Orange County School of the Arts drama department presents “The Bourgeois Gentleman,” Molière’s satirical comedic play, with music and dance, about a middle-class “bourgeois” man’s foolish, and often embarrassing, attempts at social climbing. Tickets are $12-$15. Dana Hills High School, Porthole Theater, 33333 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.6666, www.socsarts.org.

LIVE OAK REVIEW 9 p.m. Live music at StillWater Spirits & Sounds, 24701 Del Prado Avenue, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.danapointstillwater.com.

Sunday | 21 CASPERS NATURE HIKE 8 a.m.-9 a.m. Join OC Park rangers every (Cont. on page 13) www.danapointtimes.com

GETTING OUT

EDITOR’S PICK

(Cont. from page 10) Sunday morning for an easy 1-mile hike on the nature trail, which takes visitors through grassland, oak woodland, riparian and sandy cactus scrub communities. Admission is free; parking is $5 per vehicle. Participants should meet at the Old Corral day-use area. Rain will cancel the hike. Caspers Wilderness Park. 33401 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, 949.923.2210, www.ocparks.com/caspers.

ORANGE COUNTY WINE CRUISE 5:30 p.m-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.

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

Monday | 22 CAPT. DAVE’S WHALE WATCHING Times vary. Trips available every day of the week. Get up close to marine life aboard a Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari trip. Prices vary. Call for more information. 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.488.2828, www.dolphinsafari.com.

Tuesday | 23

Photo: Art Brewer

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 20: THE PASKOWITZ FAMILY, A SURFING LEGACY 6 p.m. Surfing Heritage and Culture Center will celebrate the opening of its new exhibit, “The Paskowitz Family, A Surfing Legacy.” SHACC has put together this exhibit with help from the Paskowitz children, with a collection of surfboards, photographs and treasured memorabilia. 110 Calle Iglesia, San Clemente, 949.388.0313, www.surfingheritage.org.

TINY TOTS: PARENT & ME PROGRAMS AT OCEAN INSTITUTE 9 a.m.-10:15 a.m. The Ocean Institute hosts a series of programs for children ages 2 and 3 and their parents on Tuesdays through March 1. Toddlers will explore shapes, colors, textures and more with everyone’s favorite tide pool animal, the sea star. Each session includes an activity and an animal encounter. $30 per class. Register online. Ocean Institute, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute. org/parentchild-programs.

onboard this two-hour cruise to see dolphins, whales and other marine life in the wild. $22.50. Half price on Tuesdays but trips are available every day of the week.

Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching, 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com.

Wednesday | 24 PAINTING AND VINO 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Sip wine while participating in a painting class taught by a professional artist. All supplies provided. $45. Register online at www.paintingandvino.com. StillWater Spirits & Sounds, 24701 Del Prado Avenue, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.danapointstillwater.com.

LOCALS NIGHT AT THE POINT Open to close. Locals get a 20 percent food discount on Wednesdays. Ask server for details. The Point Restaurant, 34085 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point, 949.464.5700, www.thepointrestaurantandbar.com.

Thursday | 25 CURIOSITY CARTS 10 a.m.-noon. Every Tuesday and Thursday, educational carts offer visitors a close-up view of historical artifacts, including objects used by the Juaneño Indians.

Free with $6-$9 admission. Mission San Juan Capistrano, 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.

DOO WAH RIDERS 7:30 p.m. Live music at The Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

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

Have an event? Send your listing to events@danapointtimes.com

HALF-PRICE WHALE WATCHING 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. Hop

At the Movies: ‘Touched with Fire’ is Luke Warm

BY MEGAN BIANCO, DANA POINT TIMES

I

t’s been four years since Katie Holmes divorced her eccentric husband Tom Cruise, and the actress has wasted no time getting her career back on track. Between modeling and acting, the former TV starlet is enjoying a modest comeback of sorts. Her latest movie, Paul Dalio’s Touched with Fire, is her first lead role in half a decade, and she gives a fine performance in an otherwise bizarre modern fairytale.

Set in New York City, professional poet Dana Point Times February 19-25, 2016

Carla Lucia (Holmes) has a reputation for writing too long, sleeping too little and staring at the sun with her eyes wide open. On the other side of town, rap artist Marco, or “Luna” (Luke Kirby), has quit everything in life to graffiti all over town, smoke marijuana and preach about how the world is ending.

When the two are simultaneously admitted into the same mental hospital as manic depressives, they bring out not only passion in each other but also hysteria.

Griffin Dunne and Christine Lahti co-star.

Touched with Fire is an odd film that probably

had a lot of initial potential but in the end lacks sincerity. It’s hard to tell what message Dalio is trying to deliver exactly. It’s a love story, but it’s also a tale about the signs of mental illness. Our heroes want to give in to their craziness together, but are being held back by their doctors and parents. The moral of the film isn’t completely clear, and Kirby’s overly animated acting doesn’t help despite Holmes’ genuineness. Indie drama fans might want to stick with Manic (2001) and Smashed (2012) for mentally unstable romances. DP

Page 13

www.danapointtimes.com

DP DP LIVING Dana Point

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

GUEST OPINION: Reading with Wright by Christopher Wright

Going to the Dogs

E

ven though I grew up without dogs, they were a part of my life through movies, television and books. There are some new, great and even cute books for adults featuring some famous canines.

Here are a few I recommend.

I, Toto: The Autobiography of Terry, the Dog Who Was Toto by Willard Carroll (2013): This is a short and sweet 96 pages set in the format of a scrapbook in which Terry, aka Toto, tells her story. It’s super cute and charming.

Rin Tin Tin: The Life and the Legend by Susan Orlean (2011): Much more than a story about a dog and an American icon, it’s also about America’s fascination with animals and movies.

The story contains a lot of revelatory information, such as how the READING WITH name Rover came into WRIGHT common usage. This abBy Christopher Wright solutely fascinating narrative of the dog and the people involved is obsessive, tragic and personal. There are some great “deep thought” moments by the author as she talks about life and the decisions made by the principals. It took Orlean 10 years to write this as she interviewed people around the country, opened up storage lockers and combed through personal effects. Talk about research!

This was a labor of love from a childhood memory, and it’s a gem.

The Dog Who Could Fly: The Incredible True Story of a WWII Airman and the FourLegged Hero Who Flew at His Side by Lewis Damien (2014): If you can get past the excessive anthropomorphism that is also part of this book’s charm, you will find a compelling tale of bravery and camaraderie of man and beast. This incredible story leaves you with that old adage: You can’t make this stuff up. “Ant,” the dog

Sudoku

BY MYLES MELLOR Last week’s solution:

Each Sudoku puzzle consists of a 9x9 grid that has been subdivided into nine smaller grids of 3x3 squares. To solve the puzzle, each row, column and box must contain each of the numbers 1 to 9. Puzzles come in three grades: easy, medium and difficult. Level: Easy Dana Point Times February 19-25, 2016

in this story (part Lassie, part Greyfriars Bobby), absolutely eclipses those other canine icons in his exploits. And he could be a bad dog too; Lewis tells it all. Ant’s owner, Robert Bozdech, a Czech airman, found him after he was shot down while flying for the French Air Force during the Phony War. They escape to the UK and are immediately in the Czech squadron in the RAF flying Wellington bombers. There are some great moments in this book of military martinets being crushed by the power of dog lovers higher in the chain of command.

Maria Goodavage is the author of numerous “travel with dog” guides, but she has also written two books on military working dogs that are great reads: Soldier Dogs (2012) and Top Dog: The Story of Marine Hero Lucca (2014). You’d be surprised to know that most of the United States’ military working dogs aren’t even American canines. Soldier Dogs is a pretty comprehensive look into how dogs are procured and trained for a variety of tasks.

It’s also filled with some soulful vignettes on the bond between dog and master.

There are plenty of mystery series that feature sleuths and dogs, but my favorite and the most popular is the Chet and Bernie series in which the dog, Chet, is the narrator. There are eight books in the series by Spencer Quinn, and they all feature clever titles like, Paw and Order, A Fistful of Collars and The Sound and the Furry, to name just a few. Chet often goes off on tangents while telling the story, but you have to remember: he’s a dog.

The Dana Point Library’s informal group, the Tea Time Book Club, meets every fourth Monday of the month from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and tea is served.

Bring your favorite tea cup and join us. All are welcome. This month’s meeting on Monday, Feb. 22, at 10:30 a.m., will feature The Light Between Oceans by M. L. Sted-

SCENE { I N DANA P O I NT }

Thai This, in the Dana Point Lantern

District since 1992, is one of a handful

of businesses being displaced by an upcoming three-

phase mixed-use development (approved by City Council

in October under the name “Majestic”) to include 109 resi-

dential units and 32,500 square feet of retail space built

on seven lots. Thai This has a sister location, Thai Juan On, in San Juan Capistrano. Photo: Andrea Swayne man. For a list of featured titles, call the library at 949.496.5517.

Coming up on Saturday, April 2, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Irvine Marriott is the Orange County Public Libraries’ literary festival, Literary Orange. Registration is now open for the 10th annual event online at www.literaryorange.org. This year’s event will feature three keynote speakers: Melanie Benjamin, author of The Aviator’s Wife; Debbie Macomber, prolific author of romance; and J. Ryan Stradal, author of The Kitchens of the Great Midwest.

I will be the moderator for a panel titled “Ships, Subs and SEALs,” about the U.S. Navy in fiction. More on that in March.

Happy Reading.

For more information about upcoming

events across the Orange County Public Libraries system, visit www.ocpl.org. The site also provides access to online databases, digital copies of popular magazines, PDF copies of historical sheet music, ebooks, audiobooks, jobseeker resources and more.

Chris Wright is not sure if he lives to read or if he reads to live. He has been a public librarian with the OC Public Libraries since 2006 and currently works at the Dana Point branch. 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: Gretchen

S

ix-year-old Gretchen is an outgoing kitty who loves meeting new people. Often the first to greet you at the door, she is always up for a good pet and cuddle session. If you’re looking for an all-around great cat, Gretchen might be the one for you.

If you would like to know more about Gretchen, please call the San Clemente-Dana Point Animal Shelter at 949.492.1617, or visit with her at the shelter, 221 Avenida Fabricante in San Clemente. DP

Page 14

Gretchen. Photo: Courtesy of the San Clemente-Dana Point Animal Shelter

www.danapointtimes.com

DP LIVING GUEST OPINION: Four Kids and a Dog: By Elizabeth Bottiaux

Miserable Mornings: Finding Joy in the Daily Chaos

T

he last door has slammed. Bickering children, hormonal girls and tears of frustration have piled into Daddy’s truck and are off to school. Our house now lays strangely silent.

Weekday mornings at our house are hectic. There are four young people with four distinctly different personalities all clamoring to get out the door in unison.

There is Slow Man. He operates at one speed: snail’s pace. Slow Man does not worry about making himself or others tardy for school. He’s definitely not a morning person and isn’t interested in eating breakfast before 10 a.m. Slow Man causes everyone around him to feel frustrated and angry.

Then there’s the one who rises before the entire family, eats, gets dressed and is ready for school before the rest of us set foot downstairs. Fantastic. However, Early Riser will then linger about, watching everyone else stumble through their morning obstacle course, taunting and making unnecessary comments to her siblings.

Usually the taunting ends with a giant outpouring of hormonal tears and shrieking.

Doors slam. The house trembles.

I’m certain our neighbors think we are all crazy. Later, when I see the smiling

next-door neighbor at the mailbox, I’ll wonder what was overheard and quickly avert my eyes with shame.

Don’t forget about Instigator. Wellknown across the land for striking up arguments, Instigator stirs the pot knowing full well that she is brewing problems.

Instigator has a knack for getting people fired up. Once they’re fired up (and then flip out), she enjoys playing the role of victim.

She even finds humor in getting a sibling or three angry enough that they lose their tempers and their minds.

Last but not least, is Baby Bear. Baby Bear FOUR KIDS doesn’t usually cause AND A DOG problems; he’s our one

By Elizabeth and only mellow child.

Bottiaux He’s the youngest and just content being along for the ride. His biggest fault is not being able to do many things on his own yet. During the morning flurry, Baby Bear often gets lost in the shuffle. Sometimes he’ll take matters into his own hands for attention and to increase his standing in the unsanctioned Bottiaux kid ranking. He’s been known to strip na-

ked and chase shrieking sisters and their friends around the house in order to put himself on the family map.

In an effort to streamline our morning frenzy, we’ve tried a few things lately.

Getting Slow Man’s outfit ready the night before seems to help him through his sluggish morning haze. Setting the timer helps put a jump in his step—he’s always up for a race; even if it’s against the clock.

Clear guidelines are necessary for the others before the drama begins. They need to know that starting fights will ensure their free time is filled with extra chores and revoked privileges.

Mom or Dad showing a little interest might be what’s needed. Maybe they’re acting out because they’re worried about something happening at school. At my older daughter’s age, there are a lot of issues with friends. One day she’s in friend land and everyone is getting along beautifully. The next day they’re enemies and she’s avoiding them at all costs. Taking a minute to draw out of each child what could be causing anxiety might lead to a more subdued morning.

The breakfast meal itself can be a challenge. Up until a few months ago, we were cereal people. Easy. Suddenly I became

a short-order cook with bossy customers. One kid can’t live without his framed egg. Another needs an acai bowl with all the fixings. Porridge and protein shakes are on the morning menu too. The oldest can help with eggs and porridge. But, the high powered blender business is an adult matter.

Then there are the lunches. Oh how I dislike packing them. Nighttime assembly would be ideal. I know this. But, I’m exhausted and sick of cleaning up other people’s messes by day’s end. So, project lunchbox is handled in the morning.

One day, when they’re all grown, mornings won’t be so rushed, stressful or chaotic. In the meantime, I will try to find joy in providing them with healthy meals and a loving home.

Elizabeth Bottiaux is mom to four small humans, ages 5, 7, 8 and 10. She’s a San Clemente resident and has lived in Orange County for the past 16 years. She publishes a blog, www.fourkidsandadog.com, about family life in our tri-city area. DP PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the DPTimes 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 DPTimes or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@danapointtimes.com

LOCALS ONLY BUSINESS LISTINGS ADDICTION RECOVERY TREATMENT

Body Mind Spirit Intensive Outpatient Program 949.485.4979 info@bodymindspiritiop.com www.bodymindspiritiop.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

Coffee Importers Espresso Bar

34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, www.coffeeimporters.com

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Represent.xyz

949.274.0590, www.represent.xyz Dana Point Times February 19–25, 2016

DANCE/FITNESS

Club Salsa Dance Studio

34202 Camino Capistrano, 949.230.0543, www.clubsalsadance.com

HANDYMAN

Beach City Handyman

33292 Bremerton St., 810.569.7295, gnarlyconceptdesign.com

HAULING

Cheapest Hauling

Call Robert 949.973.6288

ICE CREAM

Coffee Importers Scoop Deck

34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, www.coffeeimporters.com

INSURANCE SERVICES

Patricia Powers

24551 Del Prado, Ste. 364, 949.496.1900, pat.powers@cox.net

State Farm/Ted Bowersox

34085 Pacific Coast Hwy., Ste. 204, 949.661.3200, www.tedbowersox.com

Statefarm/Elaine LaVine

34080 Golden Lantern, 949.240.8944, www.elainelavine.net

MASSAGE

Crystal Clyde Intuitive Bodywork

32840 Pacific Coast Highway, Ste. E, 949.584.2462, www.crystalclyde.com

MUSIC INSTRUCTION

Danman’s Music School

24699 Del Prado, 949.496.6556, www.danmans.com

SCHOOLS

Capistrano Valley Christian Schools

32032 Del Obispo Street, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.5683, www.cvcs.org

WINDOW & DOOR REPLACEMENT

Offshore Construction

949.444.6323, www.offshoreconstruction.org Page 15

LIST LOCALS ONLY

USE LOCALS ONLY In print and online 52 weeks a year.

View online at www.sanclementetimes.com.

Call at Debra Wells for pricing at 949.589.0892 or email dwells@thecapistranodispatch.com www.danapointtimes.com

DP SPORTS & OUTDOORS Dana Point

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Dolphin Report

Dana Wharf Fish Count DANA POINT TIMES

Here is the latest fish count out of Dana Wharf Sportfishing and Whale Watching:

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, DANA POINT TIMES

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

2/17 • 3 boats; 48 anglers: 144 sculpin, 17 calico bass, 5 sand bass 2/16 • 2 boats; 53 anglers: 64 sculpin, 5 calico bass, 5 sand bass 2/15 • 4 boats; 95 anglers: 108 sculpin, 7 calico bass, 2 sand bass 2/14 • 2 boats; 64 anglers: 13 sculpin, 5 sand bass, 1 calico bass, 1 sargo 2/13 • 4 boats; 91 anglers: 83 sculpin, 30 sand dabs, 6 sand bass, 5 calico bass, 1 yellowtail 2/12 • 2 boats; 50 anglers: 2 sand bass, 1 calico bass, 1 sculpin 2/11 • 3 boats; 78 anglers: 9 sculpin, 2 calico bass, 1 sand bass 2/10 • 1 boat; 17 anglers: 5 sculpin, 4 sand bass, 2 calico bass 2/9 • 3 boats; 47 anglers: 118 sculpin, 16 calico bass, 3 sand bass

Tritons Topple Dolphins Hoops in South Coast Finale With the outright South Coast League title on the line and a chance at making school history, the San Clemente boys basketball team caught fire late.

Trailing rival Dana Hills by five points at the midway point of the two team’s Feb. 11 matchup, San Clemente flipped the switch and routed the Dolphins over the final 16 minutes of play to secure a 59-46 victory.

San Clemente (20-6, 7-1 league) surged to its second consecutive outright league title and third league championship in four years behind an explosive 12-2 run in the third quarter. San Clemente forced six straight Dolphin turnovers to open the second half and cashed in on their opponent’s miscues.

The Tritons kept the pressure on in the fourth by knocking down dagger 3-point shots that stretched their lead. San Clemente outscored the Dolphins 34-16 over the final two quarters of play.

It was the 20th victory of the season for San Clemente, a mark that ties the school record.

San Clemente took its first lead of the second half when senior guard Gage Shelmidine stole the ball at midcourt and knocked down a jump shot to give the Tritons a 33-32 lead it would not let go of.

The Tritons lead grew to as many as 18 in the fourth quarter.

Senior forward Cole Fotheringham, who has been a member on three league championship squads, made his presence felt in the fourth quarter. Fotheringham scored eight of his 12 points in the fourth and pulled in five of his game-high 10 rebounds.

The Tritons’ prowess on the glass in the second half opened up their freeflowing transition offense, which led to three 3-pointers and easy layups. Senior Dillon Waikle made back-to-back 3-pointers to open the fourth quarter, and Jake Cameron hit another on the Tritons’ next possession to push the lead to 46-32.

Dana Hills (9-18, 0-8) took the early lead behind the strong play of guards Harold Hall, Parker Romo and Nathan Hernandez. Romo and the Dolphins offense attacked the Tritons inside, drawing Dana Point Times February 19-25, 2016

Dana Hills senior guard Parker Romo (10) fends off defenders during a South Coast League game against San Clemente on Feb. 11. Photo: Matt Macarewich

multiple shooting fouls and putting the Tritons in early foul trouble. Hernandez, Hall and Romo all scored, respectively, on the Dolphins final three possessions of the first half, fueling a 12-6 run that gave the visiting team a 30-25 lead at the midway point.

The Tritons refocused effort in the third quarter halted all the momentum Dana Hills had built up to that point.

“We just had to regroup a little bit (in the second half). I think we were all getting frustrated … things weren’t going our way,” Fotheringham said. “We came together and I think that’s all we needed to do.”

Girls Basketball Hits the Road in CIF-SS First Round Coming off its best season in years, the red-hot Dana Hills girls basketball team was set to open CIF-SS Division 1A competition on the road against Cypress on Feb. 18. Results were not available at press time.

The Dolphins, who placed second in the Sea View League, drew a tough first-round opponent in Cypress, the second-place finisher in the six-member Empire League. Cypress went 17-9 on the season, including an 8-2 record in league play.

Dolphins Soccer Opens Playoff-Run Against Edison The Dana Hills girls soccer team was set to open its run through the CIF-SS Division 1 Championships with a first-round match on the road against Edison on Feb. 18.

Results were not available at press time.

The Dolphins (6-4-10) placed third in the South Coast League, going 2-1-1 down the stretch to secure a playoff berth.

Edison (16-5-2) finished runner-up in the competitive Sunset League and entered the playoffs on a hot streak.

The Chargers won four of their final five games of the regular season.

The winner of the Dana Hills-Edison matchup will play the winner of TesoroEsperanza in the second round on Feb. 23.

Ninth-Ranked Dolphins Head into Playoffs The ninth-ranked Dana Hills girls water polo team was given a tough first-round matchup in the CIF-SS Division 2 Championships. The Dolphins, who placed third in the South Coast League, were slated to open the playoffs on the road against No. 8 Long Beach Wilson on Feb. 18. Results were not available at press time.

The two teams entered the match Page 16

having played against one another twice before earlier in the season. The Dolphins bested Long Beach Wilson 9-8 in a nonleague match on Dec. 18 and Long Beach Wilson edged Dana Hills 6-5 on Jan. 22.

The Dolphins’ match against Long Beach Wilson is one of two Division 2 first-round matchups that features two top-10 teams. The other top-10 matchup in the bracket is No. 7 Agoura against No. 10 Rancho Cucamonga.

The winner of the Dana Hills-Long Beach Wilson match will play the winner of Murrieta Valley-Thousand Oaks in the quarterfinals on Feb. 20. Murrieta Valley is the No. 1-seeded team in Division 2.

Boys Soccer Falls to Hawks in Final Game Despite scoring two second-half goals, the Dana Hills boys soccer team was bested by Laguna Hills 5-2 on Feb. 11 in the final Sea View League match of the season.

Laguna Hills held a 2-0 advantage after the first half and was able to find the back of the net three more times in the final 40 minutes.

Evan Bicknell and Ethan Lyons each scored once for the Dolphins.

The Dolphins’ run through league play will be a forgettable one, as the team went winless in 10 matches, earning two draws. www.danapointtimes.com

DP BUSINESS DIRECTORY

DSaan n Cl a em Poenintet

CLASSIFIEDS

Submit your classified ad online at www.danapointtimes.com AUTOS FOR SALE

MUST SELL!! SEATS 7!

2009 NISSAN PATHFINDER 4x4 Silver with black interior. Bluetooth CD player with lan hookup. New Bilstein shocks. K&N air filter. In great shape. $13,000 949-633-3860

FOR RENT BEAUTIFUL UPSTAIRS DUPLEX - DANA POINT Immediate Occupancy Available * located in Lantern Village * Dana Point Harbor walking distance * $2,350 Monthly * 2 bedroom & 1.5 bath * 2 car garage under unit - w/storage * granite kitchen counters * private laundry room * private patio * paid H20, Trash & Gardner * small pet considered Appointment Only – 949.275.0375 (Ask for Fred)

HELP WANTED BEACH CLUB MANAGER WANTED The San Clemente Shorecliffs Beach Club Association (“SBC”) is seeking a manager for its beach club. Submit resume to: board@ shorecliffsbeachclub.net

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 19-25, 2016

Page 17

www.danapointtimes.com

DP DP SURF Dana Point

DP SURF IS PRESENTED BY:

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

Foggy Weather, Fantastic Surfing

Fog delays 17 of 26 divisions at WSA event in Huntington Beach, locals bring home nine trophies

BY ANDREA SWANE, DANA POINT TIMES

A

thick fog bank greeted Western Surfing Association competitors upon arrival to the Huntington Beach Pier on Saturday, Feb. 13, setting the two-day event No. 7 back by four and a half hours right from the start.

On day two, Sunday, Feb. 14, the plan to make up the fog-delayed heats of the previous day by running three competition areas, looked as if it was going to work, as competition started on time that day. However, as the morning heats went on, the fog rolled in once again, resulting in another delay or three and a half hours. Finally, shortly before noon, the fog had lifted to a point where competition could resume and local competitors did not disappoint.

SURF FORECAST Water Temperature: 58-60 degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: 4-8’ Poor-Fair

Left: Ethan Mudge of Capistrano Beach took fourth place in Junior Longboard U18 on Feb. 14, at WSA Event No. 7. Right: Bethany Zelasko of Dana Point won the Open Women Shortboard division at WSA Event No. 7, Feb. 13-14 in Huntington Beach. Photos: WSA/Jack McDaniel

Behind the fog, the swell was pumping out waves in the 3- to 5-foot range with occasional outside sets in the 6- to 7-foot range, and the surfers took full advantage of the waves.

Only nine of the 26 divisions were completed, with nine trophies awarded to surfers from the tri-city area.

The weekend’s top honors went to Bethany Zelasko of Dana Point who won the Open Women Shortboard division and Kevin Skvarna (San Juan Capistrano) the Open Men Longboard division winner.

Skvarna also took home a runner-up trophy in Junior Longboard U18.

Other local finalists were Capistrano Beach’s Ethan Mudge, who took fourth in Junior Longboard U18 along with San

GROM OF THE WEEK

MARIA BAREND

M

aria Barend, 16, and her family recently bought a second home in San Clemente and are now spending time on both coasts, splitting their time between here and their home in Rhode Island. As an avid surf competitor, Maria is delighted to be able to stay in San Clemente for a couple of months at a time to take advantage of good swells and surf contests.

Maria is a homeschooled high school sophomore with plans to attend college, preferably Point Loma Nazarene University, after she graduates.

Born in Hawaii into a surfing family, the sport has always been a part of Maria’s life, although she really got into it when she was 12. Her mother was a former pro surfer (Ana Gallotti Barend, Brazil) and her father Chuck, a longtime surfer from Florida.

“I surf a lot with my twin brother Edward, too,” Maria said. “He doesn’t surf competitively but we are definitely surf buddies.”

Maria found her love for surfing while living in Rhode Island.

“When we moved to Rhode Island, my parents just wanted us to have a childhood Dana Point Times February 19-25, 2016

Maria Barend. Photo: WSA/Jack McDaniel

and to experience life without surfing for a while,” Maria said. “Because they saw in Hawaii it can be kind of tough, especially if the kid doesn’t really love surfing. I was a ballerina for about 10 years but I always watched my parents surf. I would be taking pictures of them and thinking to myself that it looked really fun, so I started going out more and more. When I was about 12 it just stuck with me and I couldn’t get enough.”

Besides surfing, Maria also enjoys art, skateboarding, snowboarding, writing, cooking and knitting.

Maria began her amateur surf career traveling the East Coast to compete in the few available contests she could find. Having more events in which to test her mettle is

Clementeans Jaime Linnes (second place, Open Women), Aidan Sautner (second place, Boys U14 Longboard), Rhyn Chambers (third, Boys U14 Longboard), Cole Thompson (fifth, Junior Longboard U18) and Hana Catsimanes, the third-place finisher in Girls U14 Longboard.

A number of local surfers had advanced on in the competition and will continue their run at the podium when the event resumes next month.

The remainder of the event will be scheduled to run alongside WSA Event No. 8 set for March 12 and 13 in Oceanside. Make-up heats from Event No. 6 in January, postponed due to large, unruly conditions, will also be made up on March 12 and 13. DP

one of Maria’s favorite things about having a home here.

“I love San Clemente,” Maria said. “The waves are so fun and the people are so warm. It’s awesome to be around such a nice environment and nice people. We don’t really have many contests back home and I love how it’s so local here and there are so many events. And I love how the competitors here are more like a big family in WSA and Surfing America Prime.”

Maria is training hard and competing as much as possible in an effort to continue taking her surfing to another level. Besides surfing, she works out with weights, running and yoga.

“I do whatever I can to get stronger,” Maria said. “I just want to go the farthest surfing can take me, try my hardest and have the most fun I possibly can. If that gets me to being a pro surfer, great, but if not, that’s OK too. I am just going to try my best.”

Maria’s strength in surfing is “a good frontside flow,” she said, adding that she is currently focusing on honing her technique in order to become more progressive and powerful.

“I am very thankful to be in San Clemente and for all the other opportunities in my life,” Maria said. “I thank my family and my friends for their support. And I thank God for everything.”—Andrea Swayne

Page 18

Outlook: Modest to locally fun WNW swell peaks on Friday. Fun surf in the waist to shoulder high zone with bigger sets at standouts.

Conditions improve for the weekend with light offshore winds in the morning and a light sea breeze in the afternoon. Check the full premium forecast on Surfline for more details and the longer range outlook.

RESULTS WSA Championship Tour, Event No. 7, February 13-14, Huntington Beach, Pier MASTERS: 1. Kale Shannon, Ventura; 2. Philip Salick, Los Angeles; 3. David Morgan, Los Angeles; 4. James Flores, Colorado; 5. Tyler Benoit, Ucluelet, B. C. Canada; 6.

Ryan Goerig, Laguna Niguel. OPEN WOMEN: 1. Bethany Zelasko, Dana Point; 2. Jaime Linnes, San Clemente; 3. Maya Saulino, San Marcos; 4. Sierry Garcia, Long Beach; 5. Maile Davis, Carlsbad; 6. Claire Loughlin, Ventura. BOYS U14 LONGBOARD: 1. Cash Cherry, Manhattan Beach; 2. Aidan Sautner, San Clemente; 3.

Rhyn Chambers, San Clemente. JUNIOR LONGBOARD U18: 1. Alex Fry, Manhattan Beach; 2. Kevin Skvarna, San Juan Capistrano; 3. Benjamin Goldstein, Carlsbad; 4. Ethan Mudge, Capistrano Beach; 5. Cole Thompson, San Clemente; 6. Orion Lehrmann, Carlsbad. SENIOR LONGBOARD 40+: 1. Lance Albright, Huntington Beach; 2. Jorge Barba, Oceanside. OPEN MEN LONGBOARD: 1.

Kevin Skvarna, San Juan Capistrano; 2. Trevor Anderberg, Encinitas; 3. Jorge Barba, Oceanside; 4. Shane Smith, Huntington Beach. GIRLS U14 LONGBOARD: 1. Brooke Carlson; 2. Sive Jarrard, Carlsbad; 3. Hana Catsimanes, San Clemente; 4. Molly Tuschen, San Diego. OPEN WOMEN LONGBOARD: 1. Betsey Lee, Topanga; 2. Cate Stokes, Aliso Viejo; 3. Alexa Ross, Laguna Niguel; 4.

Brooke Carlson, Calabasas; 5. Aine Dwyer, Coronado; 6. Niki Katz, Hidden Hills. ADAPTIVE: bye, equal points awarded.

Partial results only. WSA event No. 7 was not completed due to fog delays. Remaining divisions will be completed at event No. 8, March 12-13.

UPCOMING EVENTS February 20: Scholastic Surf Series, OC Middle School, Event No. 4, Oceanside, Pier February 21: Scholastic Surf Series, OC High School, Event No. 4, Huntington Beach, Goldenwest Street February 27: Soul Surf Series, Event No. 5, San Clemente, T Street February 27-28: NSSA Open, Event No. 9, Ventura, C Street March 5: Scholastic Surf Series, OC Middle School, Event No. 5, San Clemente, Pier March 6: Scholastic Surf Series, OC High School, Event No. 5, San Clemente, Pier March 12-13: WSA Championship Tour, Event No. 8, Oceanside Harbor, South Jetty March 12-13: WSA Championship Tour, Event No. 6, Make-up heats from Jan. 16-17, Oceanside Harbor, South Jetty; Event No. 7, Make-up heats from Feb. 13-14, Huntington Beach, Pier March 19: Soul Surf Series, Event No. 6, San Clemente, Pier March 19-20: NSSA Open, Event No. 10, Huntington Beach, Pier

www.danapointtimes.com