July 12, 2019

LO C A L

N EWS

YO U

July 12-18, 2019 C A N

U S E

City Offers Fine Dining for Senior Residents PAGE 3

VOLUME 12, ISSUE 28

A Reef Among Us Construction for Artificial Wheeler North Reef Scheduled to Expand E Y E O N D P/ PAG E 5

danapointtimes.com

Reef into Dana Point waters begins Thursday, July 18. Photo: File

Dana Point Water Wars Held on July 4 EYE ON DP/PAGE 4

DPYB Tsunami Teams Play at PONY Regionals SPORTS/PAGE 12

Guest Opinion: OCFA Launches Aerial Tech Program SOAPBOX/PAGE 6

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

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Dana Dana Point Point

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

Five things Dana Point should know this week Earthquakes Rock Southern California THE LATEST: While cities throughout the nation celebrated the July 4 holiday weekend, Southern California was rocked by two major earthquakes, increasing the possibility of aftershocks occurring throughout the week, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

A 6.4 magnitude quake first shook the city of Ridgecrest the morning of July 4.

The desert town was hit again the following evening when a 7.1 tremor struck the area, causing further damage to buildings. No fatalities or major injuries were reported, according to news outlets.

Countywide earthquake assessments conducted by the Orange County Fire Authority found no reports of major damage or injuries following both quakes, according to Jon Muir, OCFA’s public information officer.

OCFA’s Heavy Rescue 6 was deployed to Ridgecrest to assist other emergency crews over the July 4 weekend by participating in damage assessments.

“There are some homes that the foundations have cracked, and there was some leaning of buildings,” Muir said, based on reports from the Heavy Rescue team.

Currently, OCFA is working on a countywide communication plan for earthquake preparedness training among city officials and residents.—Shawn Raymundo

Lunch Program for Senior Residents Takes New Level of Fine Dining THE LATEST: The City of Dana Point is now offering fine dining experiences for senior residents after the community center underwent renovation in the fall of 2018.

Out of the 11 communities in South Orange County where Age Well Senior Services operates the weekday lunch program, Dana Point is the first to offer a fine dining program of its kind.

“We want our guests to feel valued and to be able to enjoy a nice lunch experience with their friends, as if they were going to a nice restaurant,” said Sherry Murphy, the city’s recreation manager.

The community center’s Garden Café is staffed with dedicated volunteers and city officials and is overseen by Murphy as well as Age Well Senior Services Site Dana Point Times July 12-18, 2019

Manager Sandy Andrews.

“It’s absolutely beyond wonders what Sherry has been able to do here. She’s so detail-oriented,” said Jo Lukowicz, a regular guest at Garden Café. “She puts together themed center pieces, she decorates the café and she makes us feel welcomed and special. She’s made life worth living for us, we love her.”

Lukowicz has been coming to the community center for more than 20 years.

She attends the exercise classes offered to senior residents and then attends the lunches following the classes.

WHAT’S NEXT: The lunch program begins at 11:30 a.m. each weekday in the Garden Café and includes an entrée, beverage and dessert. A $4.50 donation is appreciated, with a $6 cost for non-seniors, 59 years or younger. Reservations are recommended as space is limited, but walk-ins are welcome.

Free transportation is available to the lunch program available or Dana Point seniors by calling the city at 949.248.3536 to sign up.—Lillian Boyd

Mission Viejo Councilmember Ed Sachs to Run for 73rd Assembly District THE LATEST: Assemblymember Bill Brough will face the same Republican candidate in California’s 2020 primary election as he did in 2018.

Mission Viejo Councilmember Ed Sachs has announced his bid to represent the state’s 73rd district, just weeks after Orange County Supervisor Lisa Bartlett went public with allegations of sexual misconduct against Brough.

Sachs ran against Brough in 2018, taking in 13.5 percent of the vote during the June primary.

“I filed to run but I didn’t campaign,” Sachs said. “I wanted voters to have another option had allegations surfaced to the public about Brough’s sexual misconduct.”

Sachs said he had been aware of rumors of Brough’s alleged misconduct. Now that those accusations are public, he intends to run a full campaign.

On Monday, June 17, Bartlett spoke at a Republican Party of Orange County’s (OCGOP) Central Committee meeting about an alleged incident that occurred in 2011, while both she and Brough served on Dana Point City Council. She cited the incident as reason for the party not to endorse Brough in his bid for reelection in 2020.

Brough denies the allegations and has since rescinded his application for OCGOP’s endorsement. Sachs says he intends on applying but has already received about a dozen endorsements, including one from Bartlett.

Brough says he believes Bartlett is repurposing a fabricated incident as retaliation for his position on the Transportation

The City of Dana Point has been offering a fine dining lunch experience for seniors at the community center since April. Photo: Lillian Boyd

Corridor Agencies (TCA). The assemblymember had introduced state legislation (AB 1273) that would vastly restrict the authority of the TCA. Bartlett currently sits on the TCA’s San Joaquin Hills Transportation Corridor Agency and Sachs formerly served on the Foothill/Eastern TCA Board of Directors.

Sachs says he intends on running to curtail the “general insanity of the state legislature.”

“The progressive policies coming out of Sacramento right now are driving business and middle class out of the state,” Sachs said. “Our poorest communities can’t afford gas to commute to potential job opportunities. Businesses don’t want to invest in communities that are considered sanctuary cities.

“As for the TCA, we need to continue upholding transparency and residents need to continue speaking out. The voice of residents is so important.”

WHAT’S NEXT: To learn more about Sachs’ platform and to follow his campaign, visit edsachs.com.—LB

Levin Launches Congressional App Challenge for Students in 49th District THE LATEST: Rep. Mike Levin, D-CA, announced the launch of this year’s Congressional App Challenge on Monday, July 8, inviting middle and high school students in California’s 49th Congressional District to submit their original app for a chance for it to be displayed in the U.S. Capitol Building for one year.

Each year, individual students or teams of students throughout the nation are challenged to create and submit their own apps for the Congressional App Challenge, which launched in 2015 as an initiative to encourage student engagement in computer science.

“The CAC aims to bridge the gender,

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geographic, and racial gaps in tech by building the domestic pipeline of future tech innovators,” a press release for the challenge states. “The program has inspired over 14,000 students across 47 states and territories to code over 4,000 apps for desktop, PCs, web, tablets, mobiles or other platforms.”

The 49th District incorporates the cities of Dana Point, San Clemente, and San Juan Capistrano as well as cities in northern San Diego County.

Winners of the challenge will be recognized by their member of Congress in addition to their app being displayed in the U.S. Capitol.

For more information and to apply, head to congressionalappchallenge.us.—SR

City Council to Hold Third Weed Abatement Hearing THE LATEST: Dana Point City Council will hold its regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, July 16, at 6 p.m. in the Council Chambers, 33282 Golden Lantern, Dana Point.

A public hearing will be held for the 2019 Weed Abatement Program.

Staff is recommending city council to adopt a resolution confirming the cost of abatement and providing for the collection on the regular tax bill after a public hearing is conducted.

On June 18, the city council adopted the second of three resolutions related to a citywide Weed Abatement Program. Resolution 19-06-18-02 authorized staff to abate weeds, trash, and/or debris upon public or private property and to report to the city council with an itemized report detailing the abatement costs.

WHAT’S NEXT: The resolution under consideration is the third and final phase of the Weed Abatement Program.—LB danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

NEWS BITES DANA POINT TIMES

Annual Water Wars Held on Fourth of July in Harbor The annual Dana Point Water Wars took place in the Dana Point Harbor on Fourth of July. Participants rowed, boated and paddled onto the main channel in boats ranging from small inflatables to fishing boats that were 20 feet and longer. The biggest battle happened around noon, when warriors of all ages could be seen firing water guns and lunging buckets of water at each other. Water Wars had three rules enforced by harbor patrol: 1, No water balloons; 2, Maintain a safe speed; and 3, You must have life jackets in your boat for all people, including adults. Other than that, anyone on the water—even bystanders watching from the Island Way bridge—were fair game to be targeted.

Mission to Host 2019 Benefit Gala Mission San Juan Capistrano on Friday, Sept. 20, will host its 2019 Romance of the Mission benefit gala on the historic grounds,

Anyone on the water was fair game for the annual Dana Point Water Wars, held every Fourth of July. Photo: Lillian Boyd

where guests will be treated to a live intimate performance by Grammy Award-winning producer and vocalist Steve Tyrell.

In the ruins of The Great Stone Church, Tyrell will perform several of his popular jazz standards. Tyrell, who has achieved

success as a singer, songwriter, producer and music supervisor for nearly 50 years, has worked with several legendary artists, including Diana Ross, Ray Charles, Mary J. Blige and Stevie Wonder.

“I am thrilled to be part of the Romance of the Mission gala in their continued efforts to preserve the historic San Juan Capistrano Mission,” Tyrell said in a press release from the Mission. “It will be my honor to perform, and I am looking forward to an unforgettable evening.”

In addition to the performance, the Mission will also honor Carol and Don Dorkowski for their extensive support and commitment to preserving the Mission.

The couple is recognized as longtime supporters of Mission events.

Don, a high-school English teacher of 35 years who went on to officiate collegiate and

NFL football games including Super Bowl XXXII, serves on the Mission Preservation Foundation Board of Directors. Carol is known to support a variety of humanitarian causes.

“Don and Carol have become beloved ambassadors and can be seen at nearly every event rallying for preservation and appreciation of the Mission San Juan Capistrano,” Mission Executive Director Mechelle Lawrence Adams said in the release.

The gala will kick off at 6 p.m. with an opening reception in the Mission’s Front Gardens. For more information on underwriting or to request an invitation, contact Barb Beier at 949.234.1323 or email her at bbeier@missionsjc.com.

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

COMMUNITY MEETINGS JULY 13

Farmers Market

9 a.m.-1 p.m. Each Saturday, California farmers bring fresh produce to sell at the Dana Point Farmers Market. Craft vendors are available the first Saturday of the month. La Plaza Park, Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point.

JULY 16

Dana Point City Council Meeting

6 p.m. Dana Point City Council will hold its regularly scheduled meet-

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ing in City Hall’s Council Chamber, 33282 Golden Lantern, Suite 210.

JULY 17

Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary Club

7 a.m. Every Wednesday, the Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary Club welcomes people interested in making a difference in the local community and changing the world at their weekly meeting. Doors open and breakfast begins at 7 a.m. Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa, 25135 Park Lantern, Dana Point. monarchbeachsunriserotary.org.

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EYE ON DP

A Reef Among Us Construction for Artificial Wheeler North Reef Scheduled to Expand

BY LILLIAN BOYD, DANA POINT TIMES

S

outhern California Edison (SCE) will begin construction to more than double the size of Wheeler North Reef, a 174-acre, artificial kelp forest, on Thursday, July 18.

Wheeler North Reef currently stretches from out past the end of the San Clemente Pier south to Seal Rock. The expansion would increase to 384 acres, stretching north into Dana Point waters. The reef is intended to facilitate kelp forests that were lost to warm-water discharge used by San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS), as ocean water was used to cool its reactors.

The California Coastal Commission (CCC) issued the original SONGS Units 2 and 3 coastal development permits (CDP) in 1974. The permit provided two conditions: one, the establishment of a threemember independent Marine Review Committee (MRC) to evaluate the impact of Units 2 and 3 on the marine environment; and two, the authorization for CCC to direct SCE to meet requirements to address any adverse impacts to the marine environment identified by the MRC. In 1989, the Coastal Commission found SONGS’ cooling water system had impacted fish, eggs, larvae and the San Onofre Kelp Bed. This has been a contentious project for local stakeholders, as the reef has been described as disruptive to the natural environment currently in the area.

On July 16, 1991, the CCC amended the coastal development permits to add marine mitigation requirements. The changes required SCE to develop a wetland restoration project to mitigate fish losses, install fish behavioral devices to reduce fish mortality in the cooling water intake system and construct an artificial kelp reef to mitigate impacts on the San Onofre Kelp Reef. In 1994, the CCC added a fourth amendment, requiring SCE to fund a fish hatchery program to be developed by a CCC-appointed entity— which SCE says it completed that year.

SCE completed the fish behavioral barrier devices in 2000.

Although SONGS 2 and 3 are now being decommissioned, SCE is still obligated to meet the CDP requirements for monitoring, managing and remediating the wetlands restoration as determined by the CCC. The CCC required that it study and improve in-plant fish return and create 150 acres of tidal wetland, both of which have

Dana Point Times July 12-18, 2019

Construction for the artificial Wheeler North Reef is scheduled to begin Thursday, July 18. Photo: File

been completed. SONGS is also required

by CCC to create an additional 150 acres of kelp reef, which produces 28 tons of fish; that is now the next step for SCE. Ken Nielsen is a local career commercial fisherman and marine consultant. He says that he’s worked with environmental groups, biologists and consultants who have criticized the reef project.

“Part of my business is taking scientists out to do ocean monitoring. A lot of these people think it’s baloney, too,” Nielsen said. “It’s going to cost millions to monitor (the reef) and meet the ridiculous requirements of the Coastal Commission.”

Nielsen says he would take Dr. Wheeler North, the reef’s esteemed namesake and pioneer of kelp reef studies, out on the water. Dana Point Times columnist Fred Swegles wrote in the April 26 issue about Wheeler’s opposition to the reef.

“The first San Onofre reactor went into operation in 1983 in the middle of a horrendous El Niño,” North said in a 1998 interview. “The kelp beds all up and down the coast were suffering. And the El Niño didn’t abate here until December of ’84.

So the kelp bed was in poor condition.”

North said a kelp reef being monitored four miles to the south went extinct during the El Niño—too far away to blame on the power plant. The study didn’t consider that, he said. North said the Coastal Commission’s study concluded that San Onofre’s kelp reef would have been 60% bigger than it actually was, if SONGS

Units 2 and 3 hadn’t been operating.

“We understand there were some differences in scientific opinion among research professionals,” said John Dobken, SONGS public information officer. “However, Southern California Edison remains committed to this environmentally friendly project, which will provide lasting benefits to the local marine ecosystem.”

SCE forecasts the expansion to cost approximately $33 million—nearly $27 million of that figure comes from the cost of the amount of rock needed to cover the area.

After the first season of construction wraps up in September, the second season will resume May-September 2020 in order to avoid impacts to lobster fishing season.

Marine construction will consist of placement of quarry rock from the derrick barge with a floating crane mounted on top of the barge. The derrick barges will be stationed over modules of reef that will be constructed. The rock will be pushed into the water using a bulldozer.

“Construction of modules will take variable amounts of time depending on the size of the module,” said McGee. There will be two transport vessels transporting rock from three quarries to supply the rock being used for reef construction. Those quarries are from Catalina Island and Ensenada, Mexico.

Transport vessels will be coming from Catalina, Long Beach and Mexico. Reef material includes metavolcanic and granitic boulders. McGee added that

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the project will not have any impact on recreational fishing or boating activities and that the boater notices were issued for boater safety and awareness.

“We don’t want boaters to cross the tug and tow lines,” McGee said. “There is a line between the tugboat and barge. You might not see it, so it’s important not go in between. We also urge boaters to keep a safe distance from the derrick barge stationed over the project site.”

When asked if construction would hurt business for Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching, Captain Brian Woolley says he doesn’t expect too much of an impact.

“Fortunately we have other areas (commercial fishing vessels) can go to,” Woolley said. “I do think Edison could have been more proactive in letting people know about this project. I’m sure they met the legal requirements, but I’m betting people are going to see these barges and not know what the heck is going on.”

Woolley has attended meetings for the Wheeler North Reef expansion and has followed its progress. He added that he understood the need for Edison to mitigate the effects on the coastal environment, but he believes the agency is “missing the point” in restocking fish populations.

“I think they’ll have a hard time meeting that threshold,” Woolley said. “It’s a bummer that rather than build what the Coastal Commission ultimately required of them in one session, it’s been split up and extended out, costing ratepayers more money.” DP danapointtimes.com

DP SOAPBOX Dana Point

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

NOTE FROM THE PUBLISHER: 34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624 phone 949.388.7700 fax 949.388.9977 danapointtimes.com

BY NORB GARRETT, OWNER & PUBLISHER OF PICKET FENCE MEDIA

HOW TO REACH US CITY EDITOR Lillian Boyd, 949.388.7700, x113 lboyd@picketfencemedia.com SPORTS Zach Cavanagh, 949.388.7700, x110 zcavanagh@picketfencemedia.com ADVERTISING PRINT AND ONLINE

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PICKET FENCE MEDIA PUBLISHER Norb Garrett

> Debra Wells (SJC)

EDITORIAL

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City Editor, SC Times > Cari Hachmann City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Shawn Raymundo

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ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING

SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller

Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes > Traci Kelly (SC)

Welcome to the Picket Fence Family

CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Jake Howard, Tim Trent

Dana Point Times, Vol. 12, Issue 28. The DP Times (danapointtimes.com) is published weekly by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the SC Times (sanclementetimes.com) and The Capistrano Dispatch (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 2019. All rights reserved.

Printed in the USA.

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Dana Point Times July 12-18, 2019

enced media salesperson who brings a wealth of digital and social media knowledge and experience, as well as in print. She most recently worked for the Irvine Weekly and L.A. Weekly. She was previously with the San Diego Reader for seven years. Traci states, “I’m excited to be in San Clemente and working for the SC Times. I’m a hometown girl who loves the beach, our town and the amazing people of San Clemente.”

As Traci joins the PFM team, Susie Lantz leaves us but isn’t going far. After five years at PFM, Susie is joining the San Clemente Chamber of Commerce.

We wish Susie all the best and look for-

As we formally enter the summer season, it’s the perfect time for us to welcome our newest member PUBLISHER of the Picket Fence Norb Garrett Media family, Traci Kelly. Traci is the new SC Times Advertising & Marketing representative, who joins Associate Publisher Lauralyn Loynes and Debra Wells on our sales staff. Traci is a San Clemente resident and experi-

ward to many more years working with her to help make San Clemente great!

Please join me in welcoming Traci to the SC Times and PFM team. You can reach her at tkelly@picketfencemedia.com or 949.388.7700, x111.

GUEST OPINION: Council's Corner by Mayor Joe Muller

New Technology Helps Fight Fires

W

ildfires have become a common occurrence throughout the state of California. Whether you believe in climate change or not, we are experiencing hotter temperatures and more extreme wind events—all conditions that contribute to out-of-control wildfires.

Some may be surprised to learn that portions of Dana Point are categorized as “Very High Fire Hazard” areas, with even more “Ember Zone” areas. Our narrow canyons and open areas are ripe for wildfires.

Fortunately, Orange County Fire Authority, in partnership with Southern California Edison and Coulson Aviation, launched a first-of-its-kind, nighttime, aerial firefighting program. The “Next Generation Aerial Operations Based Pilot Program” is comprised of a Type 1 helitanker (1,000+ gallons—a typical fire engine holds 500 gallons of water) that can hover-fill at night, a first for the U.S. It works in coordination with a Type 2 reconnaissance helicopter that flies ahead of the helitanker to identify a water source with night vision goggles close to the fire, and ensures there are no hazards such as power lines or trees. It then uses

Photo: Courtesy of Mayor Joe Muller

a laser to precisely point where the water drop is needed. Once the helitanker drops its load, the Type 2 helicopter gathers intelligence and measures the effectiveness of the night drops.

This 150-day pilot program could become a game-changer. When firefighters are able to take advantage of weather conditions at night (lower temperatures, higher humidity and lighter COUNCIL'S winds) with resources CORNER such as this, they could

By Mayor make significant gains on Joe Muller controlling a wildfire.

The program was already successfully deployed by Coulson in Australia. Now it’s available to all Southern California counties thanks to the $4 million funding from SCE.

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As the chair of OCFA, I’m proud that we have this kind of aerial capability during extreme fire season that will dramatically reduce the possibility of these fires getting out of hand, especially during the night hours. As the Mayor of Dana Point, this brings me a great deal of comfort, knowing that our fire department is looking for cutting-edge technology and resources to help keep us safe.

Joe Muller was reelected to Dana Point City Council for a second term in 2018 and now serves as mayor. Muller now serves as the chair for the Orange County Fire Authority in addition to a variety of boards and commissions in the region. DP PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, Dana Point 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 Dana Point Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@danapointtimes.com

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DP GETTING OUT Dana Point

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

The List

At the Movies: ‘Midsommar’ is Intoxicating

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

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

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

34661 Golden Lantern Street, Dana Point. 949.764.3474. watermandp.com.

Saturday | 13 ADVENTURE SAILS 1-4 p.m. Set sail aboard the Spirit of Dana Point and experience California from the perspective of an early tallship explorer. Attendees have the option to assist the crew—to help raise sail, handle lines and steer the ship—or sit back and enjoy the tallship Adventure Sail. Go online to reserve tickets. Tickets are $60 for adults, $50 for seniors and active duty members of the military, $40 for children. Ocean Institute, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point.

949.496.2274. ocean-institute.org.

Sunday | 14 BRUNCH AT RAYA 11 a.m.-2 p.m. A tempting brunch with flowing champagne awaits guests every Sunday morning in RAYA at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel. Start with a fresh fruit martini and a selection of pastries, then enjoy a three-course a la carte menu. Cost is $72. One Ritz Carlton Drive, Dana Point. 949.240.2000. ritzcarlton.com/LagunaDining.

Monday | 15 BINGO AT GOODY’S 7 p.m. Every Monday, Goody’s hosts a bingo night for a charity of the month.

Cards are $1 per sleeve, and raffle prizes are offered. Goody’s Tavern. 206 S. El Camino Real. 949.492.3400. goodystavern.com.

Dana Point Times July 12-18, 2019

EDITOR’S PICK

Photo: B-Reel Films / A24 Films

BY MEGAN BIANCO, DANA POINT TIMES

The country music and wine festival MissionFest returns to San Juan Capistrano for its second year at the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park on Saturday, July 13. Photo: Courtesy of Luis Esparza

SATURDAY, JULY 13: 2019 MISSIONFEST 1-8 p.m. MissionFest is back with a music and wine-tasting experience like no other—the easiest choice for summer entertainment. The event is set in the plush grounds of San Juan Capistrano’s Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park. Country music star Jamey Johnson is this year’s headliner and will be accompanied by other country music acts such as Dennis Quaid and The Sharks, Eric Paslay, Annie Bosko and Karly Moreno. MissionFest will not only feature a powerful lineup of live music, there’ll be more than 30 fine wineries and food selections from Trevor’s at the Tracks, Sol Agave, Cousins Maine Lobster and Bad to the Bone. Pace yourself; it’s a lot of fun to have in one day. Must be 21 years of age or older to attend this event. Wine tasting will go from 1- 3:30 p.m. 30753 La Pata Road, San Juan Capistrano. Info@missionfest.com. MissionFest.com.

Tuesday | 16 TINY TOTS: MIGHT MARINERS, PARENT & ME PROGRAM 9:30 a.m. This six-week, maritime-themed series exploration will stretch your child’s imagination through creative play that supports language development, social interaction and problem-solving. Each Tuesday session includes exploration, an animal encounter and an activity. This program is suitable for ages 2-3 years, with parental support. The series fee is $150 for all six classes, and the drop-in fee is $30 per session. Ocean Institute, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. ocean-institute.org.

Wednesday | 17 OPEN MIC NIGHT AT MAHÉ 6:30-9:30 p.m. Come in for Mahé’s happy hour and stay to enjoy Orange County singer/songwriters as they join host Gary Wright live on stage. Bring your musical instruments and love of music. The stage is set with everything you need. All ages are welcome. Mahé Dana Point. 24961 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. 949.240.6243.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT TRIVIA 7:30-9:30 p.m. Enjoy friendly competition and craft beers among friends during the BrewHouse’s weekly trivia night. Food trucks are on site during the trivia contest.

The BrewHouse. 31896 Plaza Dr., Suite D3, San Juan Capistrano. 949.481.6181. thebrewhousesjc.com.

Thursday | 18 YAPPY HOUR AT THE RITZ-CARLTON 5 p.m. “Bark” your calendar to join other canines and their companions at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel to sniff and schmooze at Yappy Hour. Haute hounds enjoy lapping up libations, thanks to water in his favorite flavor (bacon, chicken, beef or vegan), while human guests relax with a glass of Mutt Lynch Unleashed Chardonnay, Merlot Over and Play Dead, or Chateau d’Og Cabernet Sauvignon. Cocktails, beer and a selection of barbecue items are available for purchase. Proceeds from Yappy Hour support the Veterans Initiative of Canine Companions for Independence.

The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, One Ritz Carlton Drive, Dana Point. 949.240.2000. ritzcarlton.com.

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F

or those who found Hereditary too gruesome viewing last summer, I should warn you that director Ari Aster’s follow-up feature released in theaters over this holiday weekend is just as graphic. If Hereditary was a family nightmare, Midsommar is a relationship fever dream.

After experiencing a traumatic family tragedy, college student Danielle Ardor (Florence Pugh) tags along with her flaky boyfriend, Christian (Jack Reynor), and his friends on a month-long trip to small-town Sweden for their annual Midsommar traditions. But before heading downtown, Christian’s friend, Pelle (Vilhelm Blomgren), convinces the group to begin the vacation visiting the commune his family resides in for a week of their own festivities. Dani thinks she’s in for a trip of homemade food and getting high until she is introduced to the stranger, cultural customs.

To no surprise, Midsommar has been getting consistent comparisons to The Wicker Man (1973). Yes, it is similar in story and theme, especially since there aren’t many films out there on pagan cults. But, fortunately, the newer film lives up to the praise for the most part.

Pugh continues her impressive streak of stellar performances, and Aster is now two-for-two with quality cinematic efforts. As a visual moviemaker, he has a unique style and technique that will make his work stand out opposite his peers. If there is one thing to nitpick— and most critics have made note of this already—it’s that Aster’s screenwriting leaves a tiny bit to be desired. There’s just one aspect that usually comes off as a bit cliché in the writing. But so far, Aster’s aesthetics and characters are memorable and intriguing enough to make up for it. DP danapointtimes.com

DP

Dana Point

DP LIVING

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

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

A Living-Apart Together Relationship (LAT) May Be the Perfect Arrangement

A

t age 78, Judy (not her real name) is confused about her relationship. She asked for advice.

Judy said, “Two years ago, a high school classmate, 78, and I began a relationship. He was married 53 years.

His wife had dementia, and he cared for her until he couldn’t anymore. She went into assisted living.

“After his wife died, he came to see me often, and helped me move and buy a car. Our feelings grew, and we declared our love.”

“We live an hour and a half away (from each other). He remembers the anniversary of our first holding hands, our first kiss, and incidents like when he says he thought of me while driving all the way home.

“He’s a country boy; I’m a city girl.

When I stay at his place, I feel like I’m in the boonies; it’s really rural. When he comes here, he cannot stand traffic. He curses at traffic, or if he drops something, or when he can’t find his phone, or at anything that frustrates him.

“I can’t stand that. It cuts into the peace we are experiencing and really affects me.

“He’s jealous that I’ve been in several relationships prior to ever knowing him.

Plus, he’s constantly wanting sexual activity to the point I think he’s obsessed.

“We just talked a few moments ago; he’s at his place and I’m at home. He misses me and loves me, and for the first time, instead of rolling his eyes when I want to go to my church group, or other things I like, he’s encouraging me to do so.

“I try to please him. He does me, too. Today, he said he doesn’t want to be someone who controls my life. That was new, because in fact, he tries to.

“Having said all that, he’s truly a fine person and the reason I got involved to begin with. There’s much I love about him. But we are very different.

ON LIFE AND “I’ve thought about LOVE AFTER 50 moving to his place

By Tom Blake and building a new life. It’s just that I like civilization. I also love his friends; they’re fun, great people. He has a large family; I enjoy being with them and love for him to spend time with them.

“Also, he’s remarked he thinks about moving into my place; thus, no yard to mow, hedges to trim, repairs to make and the like.

“He’s conflicted, and so am I.

“What to do? We love each other, but we’re so different.”

TOM’S ADVICE: Considering you’re both so different and yet love each other, you already have the best arrangement—a LAT (Living-Apart Together) relationship.

Living an hour and a half away from each other is a bit inconvenient, but living apart allows you both to spend time alone when you want.

You say you’re both “conflicted” about relocating. Based on the information you provided, if one of you relocated, there is a strong chance that one or both of you would not be happy living permanently in the other’s environment. Because you are so different, problems could quickly arise.

You say he’s controlling, jealous and wants too much sex. He also has anger issues. I see big red flags in those characteristics. Firmly explain to him that those behaviors are unacceptable to you. He must treat you with respect.

You reported that he said he is going to try to change his behavior, to be more considerate of you. Give him a chance, see if he does. And, as far as the obsessive sex, tell him to cool his jets somewhat on that also.

After your talk, see if his behavior

Adoptable Pet of the Week: Keanu

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

Dana Point Times July 12-18, 2019

The next senior singles Meet and Greet is scheduled for Thursday, July 25, 5-7 p.m., at Tutor and Spunky’s Deli, 34085 PCH in Dana Point.

No admission fee.

Complimentary appetizers.

Beer and wine $5. Couples welcome.

changes. If not, then you can decide what to do. He must treat you with respect. For now, keep the LAT relationship as is. Don’t move in together.

Tom Blake is a Dana Point resident and a former Dana Point businessman who has authored several books on middle-aged dating. See his websites findingloveafter50.com; vicsta.com and travelafter55.com. To receive Tom’s weekly online newsletter, sign up at findingloveafter50.com. Email: tompblake@ gmail.com. DP PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, Dana Point 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 Dana Point Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@danapointtimes.com

Sudoku

BY MYLES MELLOR Last week’s solution:

DANA POINT TIMES

T

SENIOR SINGLES MEET AND GREET

his handsome little guy is Keanu, a 2-year-old sweetheart looking for his forever family. While he loves playing in the yard with his small dog pals, Keanu’s favorite place to be is in your arms. He is very affectionate and loves a good snuggle or belly rub. Could you be his perfect match?

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

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

Page 10

See the solution in next week’s issue.

danapointtimes.com

CLASSIFIEDS

DP BUSINESS DIRECTORY

DSaan n Cl a em Poenintet

Submit your classified ad online at danapointtimes.com GARAGE SALES COLLECTABLES AND ANTIQUES SALE 50% OFF Dealers retirement estate sale all name brands: Royal Doulton, Boehm, Cybis, Hummel, McCoy, Kayn Finch, Florance, Fenton, Hull, Hall, tables, perfume bottles, jewelry & much more!! Sat. 7/13, 8am to 1 pm. all 50%off. 32707 Caspian Sea Dr., Dana Point, Crown Valley and Sea Island.

GARAGE SALE Saturday July 13 7:30 am to 10:30 am. 229 W. Avenida San Antonio, San Clemente, CA. Clothing, home items , accumulation of past “40 years”.

GARAGE SALE Saturday, July 13 from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. 24636 Priscilla Drive, Dana Point. Clothing, dishes, wheelchair and walker, freezer, grill, furniture

GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! E-mail your garage sale to info@danapointtimes.com DEADLINE 5PM MONDAY. NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE.

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE

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

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

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE 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 July 12-18, 2019

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DP SPORTS & OUTDOORS Dana Point

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Scoreboard

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, DANA POINT TIMES

Our City Scoreboard keeps you updated on all of the local Dana Point youth and community team accomplishments and special individual performances of the week. We want to run your scores, results and announcements.

Email zcavanagh@picketfencemedia.com for submission.

DPYB Bronco 11U Tsunami Falls at Regionals

After winning Dana Point Youth Baseball’s first District title in “recent memory,” the 11U Tsunami advanced past Sectionals to the PONY West Zone SoCal Central Region Bronco 11 tournament on July 5-7 in Cypress.

The Tsunami dropped its opener in the double-elimination tournament to Santa Ana, 5-1, on Friday, July 5. Dana Point bounced back with a 6-3 win over Cypress on Saturday, July 6. The Tsunami locked up with Santa Ana again on Sunday, July 7, but that’s where Dana Point’s tournament ended in an 11-6 loss.

DPYB Mustang 10U Tsunami Opens Regionals

Dana Point Youth Baseball’s 10U Tsunami advanced out of the loser bracket at the District tournament and opens play in the PONY West Zone SoCal Central Region Mustang 10 tournament on Friday, July 12 in Irvine.

The Tsunami lost its first game at the District tournament in Los Alamitos on June 29 to Olive, 6-1. Dana Point bounced back in an explosive way with a 20-8 win over Irvine, an 8-4 win over Placentia and a 6-1 win over St. Hedwig of Los Alamitos to advance to the Regional tournament.

Olive won the District title.

Dana Point kicks off the Regional tournament against Fountain Valley, with the winner playing the winner of Olive and Tustin on Saturday, July 13. The Champi-

949 Volleyball Club’s 16s earned silver at the USA Volleyball Boys Junior National Championships on July 7 in Dallas. Photo: 949 Volleyball Club Dana Point Times July 12-18, 2019

onship is Sunday, July 14, with a chance to advance to the Super Regional.

949 Volleyball Club Wins Four Medals at Junior Nationals

The 949 Volleyball Club, based in San Juan Capistrano with athletes from all over South Orange County, earned a silver and three bronze medals at the USA Volleyball Boys Junior National Championships in Dallas from June 30 to July 7.

The 949 Boys 16s won their first 10 matches of the tournament, dropping only three sets on the way to the 16 USA division championship game. In the title game, MAVS Volleyball of Kansas City swept 949 in two sets to take the title.

The 949 Boys 14s had a similar opening run to the 16s with wins in their first nine matches of the 14 Open Division tournament, losing only three sets. In the semifinals, local rival Balboa Bay Volleyball Club of Newport Beach swept 949 in two sets, and 949 settled for bronze.

The 949 Boys 18s took a bronze medal with a loss to Balboa Bay. The 18s went 8-1 in group play with only four dropped sets, but 949 was again swept in two sets in the 18 Open Division semifinals.

The 949 Boys 17s dropped just three sets in group play for an 8-1 record. The 17s lost their second match and then won seven in a row on the way to the 17 Open Division semifinals. 949 was taken down in two sets by Southern California Volleyball Club of Redondo Beach.

Water Polo Club Teams Qualify for Junior Olympics

Andrew Lasarge caught a 41-pound yellowtail aboard the Sum Fun. Photo: Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching

The Orange County Water Polo Club qualified eight teams in various divisions for the USA Water Polo Junior Olympics on July 20-23 and July 25-28 at the William Woollett Jr. Aquatics Center in Irvine.

OCWP qualified its Mixed 10U, Boys 12U, Boys 14U Blue, Boys 16U Blue and Boys 18U Blue to their respective championship divisions.

OCWPC’s Boys 18U Red will compete in the Classic Division. OCWPC’s Boys 14U Red and Boys 16U Red will compete in the Invitational Division.

The 16U and 18U teams qualified through the Southern Pacific Zone tournament from June 21-23 at the Woollett Aquatics Center.

The OCWPC Boys 18U Blue dominated their opener with a 21-0 win over Patriot.

OCWPC Blue had a strong win over Northwood, 11-8, and edged out Vanguard in a shootout tiebreaker, 9-9 (5-4). In the quarterfinals, OCWPC Blue knocked off Ohana, 17-6, but Newport was strong in the semifinals to beat OCWPC, 16-12.

OCWPC Blue came back to beat Vanguard again in the third-place match, 13-6, and take bronze. The OCWPC 18U Red team finished 10th. DP

Dana Wharf Fish Count Yellowtail showing up along the coast

Over at Catalina Island, bass are showing up in the kelp there as well. Trips over to Catalina have also yielded barracuda and bonito. Yellowtail has been great over there, too. Woolley said that the yellowtail has been visible and catchable with fish of 12-25 pounds. The Fury also pulled in some bluefin tuna on its long trips as well.

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, DANA POINT TIMES

Y

ellowtail have arrived in coastal waters to pair with the strong bass fishing at Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching.

In his weekly report, Captain Brian Woolley said that the water is warming up nicely, and they’re seeing a “good signal” here along the coast. Bass fishing is the main focus for the half-day and threequarter-day trips, and the bass catches will only improve as the fish begins to spawn.

Fly-lined baits have fared the best, but surface irons, rubber baits and hard jerk baits have all earned catches.

Yellowtail has filtered in on short trips as well. The current, along with clean water, have done the trick for the threequarter-day trips in the kelp off Camp Pendleton.

Page 12

Here are the latest fish counts at Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching: July 10 • 8 boats, 241 anglers: 149 calico bass, 26 sand bass, 15 sheephead, 5 whitefish, 4 rockfish, 1 halibut, 859 bass released.

July 9 • 8 boats, 241 anglers: 12 yellowtail, 1 white seabass, 166 calico bass, 19 sand bass, 8 sculpin, 7 sheephead, 30 rockfish, 65 vermilion rockfish, 3 barracuda, 1 bonito, 2 blue perch, 1 trigger, 943 bass released.

July 8 • 8 boats, 193 anglers: 15 yellowtail, 115 calico bass, 15 sand bass, 1 sculpin, 5 sheephead, 3 whitefish, 1,041 bass released. DP danapointtimes.com

PUBLIC NOTICES

TO ADVERTISE: 949.388.7700, EXT. 100 • LEGALS@PICKETFENCEMEDIA.COM PUBLIC NOTICE

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20196544913 The following person(s) is doing business as: EL CHINGON 8687 IRVINE CENTER DR IRVINE, CA 92618 Full Name of Registrant(s): GBOD HOSPITALITY GROUP 515 5TH AVENUE, SUITE 200 SAN DIEGO, CA 92101 The business is conducted by a Limited Liability Company.

The registrant commenced to transact business under the Fictitious Business Name or Names listed above on: n/a /s/GBOD HOSPITALITY GROUP, PATRICK DAVOUDI This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County On 05/28/19 Publish: Dana Point Times JUN 21, 28 JUL 5, 12, 2019 PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20196547151 The following person(s) is doing business as: LEYLAND MCKINNON BEAUTY 34112 VIOLET LANTERN, UNIT B DANA POINT, CA 92629 Full Name of Registrant(s): LEYLAND MCKINNON 131 W AVENIDA PALIZADA SAN CLEMENTE, CA 92672 The business is conducted by an individual.

The registrant commenced to transact business under the Fictitious Business Name or Names listed above on: n/a /s/LEYLAND MCKINNON This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County On 06/20/2019 Publish: Dana Point Times JUL 5, 12, 19, 26, 2019 PUBLIC NOTICE CITY OF DANA POINT NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT a public hearing will be held by the Planning Commission of the

City of Dana Point to consider the following: Coastal Development Permit 19-0003: The applicant requests approval to demolish an existing 5,421 square-foot single-family dwelling and construct a new 4,860 square-foot single-family dwelling and attached three-car garage located within the Residential Single Family 4 (RSF 4) Zoning District at 35481 Camino Capistrano. A Coastal Development Permit is required for demolition and construction of a new single-family dwelling within the Coastal Overlay District and improvements within 50’ from a coastal bluff.

Project Numbers: Project Location:

CDP19-0003 35481 Camino Capistrano (APN 653-103-15) Project Representative: John Taylor, Project Manager Applicant: Bob Ott and Barbara Niksch, Property Owners Environmental: Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the project is found to be Categorically Exempt per Section 15303 (Class 3 – New Construction).

Hearing Date: Monday, July 22, 2019 Hearing Time: 6:00 PM (or as soon thereafter as possible) Hearing Location: 33282 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, CA 92629 (Dana Point City Hall) All persons either favoring or opposing the subject project are invited to present their views to the Commission at this hearing.

Note: This project may be appealed to the City Council. If you challenge the action taken on this proposal in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City of Dana Point prior to the public hearing. This project may also be appealed to the California Coastal Commission in accordance with Dana Point Municipal Code Section 9.69.090. The process includes, but is not limited to contacting the Coastal Commission for the appropriate forms and instructions to file an appeal.

For further information, please contact Belinda Deines, Senior Planner, at the City of Dana Point Community Development Department, 33282 Golden Lantern, Suite 209, Dana Point, (949) 248-3570.

LOCALS ONLY

BUSINESS LISTINGS ADDICTION RECOVERY TREATMENT

Body Mind Spirit Intensive Outpatient Program

665 Camino De Los Mares, Ste. 104, San Clemente, 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

Complete your required legal or public notice advertising in the Dana Point Times.

• Fictitious Business Notice (FBN/DBA) • Name Changes • Lien Sale • Alcoholic Beverage License • Notice to Creditors

COFFEE SHOP

Coffee Importers Espresso Bar

34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, www.coffeeimporters.com

• Petitions for Probate • Trustee Sale • Summons – Divorce – Civil • Annual Report • Non-Responsibility • Dissolution of Partnership

ICE CREAM

Coffee Importers Scoop Deck

34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, www.coffeeimporters.com

INSURANCE SERVICES

Patricia Powers

EMAIL legals@picketfencemedia.com • CALL 949.388.7700, ext. 100

24551 Del Prado, Ste. 364, 949.496.1900, pat.powers@cox.net Dana Point Times July 12-18, 2019

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State Farm/Ted Bowersox

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

State Farm/Elaine LaVine

34080 Golden Lantern, 949.240.8944, www.elainelavine.net

MASSAGE THERAPY

Paul Svoboda CAMTC #76690 Monarch Beach Studio or Outcall, 310.387.2560 MUSIC INSTRUCTION

Danman’s Music School

24699 Del Prado, 949.496.6556, www.danmans.com

PLUMBING

A to Z Leak Detection

1001 Calle Recodo, San Clemente, 949.481.7013, www.atozleakdetection.com

Bill Metzger Plumbing

1001 Calle Recodo, San Clemente, 949.492.3558, www.billmetzerplumbing.com

UPHOLSTERY & INTERIORS

Jeddy’s Interiors

34118 Pacific Coast Highway, Ste. 2, 949.240.9569. www.jeddys.com

Want to be featured here?

Email lloynes@picketfencemedia.com for pricing.

DP DP SURF Dana Point

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

Local Surfers Go Big At 2019 NSSA Nationals Taj Lindblad, Bella Kenworthy claim national titles, while SCHS and Shorecliffs Middle School Continue Their Dominance

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

C

ulminating in national titles for a number of local Dana Point and San Clemente surfers, last week the National Scholastic Surfing Association (NSSA) National Championships landed in Huntington Beach. Winning the coveted Open Men’s title was San Clemente’s own Taj Linblad. Besting Encinitas’s talented Nick Marshall in a one-sided final, Lindblad was ripping all week long and received the AI Open Men’s Outstanding Performer inspired by Andy Irons Award.

Not to be outdone by the boys, Dana Point’s Bella Kenworthy blew up in the

Open Super Girls division. Claiming her first NSSA national title, Kenworthy went undefeated in the 2018-19 regular season, then won the Regional Championships before blitzing through Nationals.

And because surfing is a family affair for the Kenworthy clan, younger brother Loyal was very stoked to come away with a respectable fourth-place finish in the Open Mini Grom division.

Other winners included San Clemente’s Hayden Rodgers, who won the National Junior Airshow title for the second year in a row, and Kevin Skvarna, who took out the College Longboard division.

San Clemente High won its 19th national title, with Kai McPhillips winning the Varsity Men’s division. And the future is bright, as San Clemente High’s JV squad won its fourth consecutive title. It pulled off a title sweep, with Luke Blackwill winning JV Men’s, Julia Guild winning JV Women’s and Griffin Glenn taking out the JV Longboard division.

Not to be outdone, Shorecliffs Middle School claimed its 16th National Middle School Title. And like the Triton JV squad, Shorecliffs swept the podium, with Brayden Burch winning Middle School Boys, Sawyer Lindblad winning Middle School Girls and Banning Wetzel claiming the Middle School Longboard title.

Congratulations to all of the winners, competitors and kids who dedicated themselves to being better surfers, as well as better people. DP

Taj Lindblad en route to winning the 2019 NSSA National Title. Photo: NSSA

GROM OF THE WEEK

CASCIA COLLINGS

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

I

t’s not necessarily who wins, but how you play the game. Always on the beach, always with a constant smile and sense of stoke, Dana Point’s Cascia Collings is not only having a great year in wearing a jersey, but her froth level is always maxed out no matter when or where she’s surfing.

A rising star in the Dana Point surf scene, Collings is a regular competitor in the Western Surfing Association events, as well as the USA Surfing contest. Her Dana Point Times July 12-18, 2019

beautiful run kicked off last year, when she was selected to join the USA Surfing Development team and was able to work with some of the best surfers of her generation and blossom under the coaching and instruction she received.

All the hard work and positive vibes paid off, as Collings went into her first season on the Dana Hills High School Surf Team. One of the standouts on a highly talented squad, Collings ripped her way to a third-place place finish in the NSSA National High School Championships. Her performance helped carry Dana Hills to a very respectable fourth-place overall finish in the NSSA National High School rankings. DP

Surf Tripping With the Stars in Nicaragua If you’re looking for a quick, easy getaway with epic surf, the La Jolla de Guasacate should be on your radar

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

H

ow do you build your own surf paradise? It starts with a dream.

“I wanted to figure out how to surf more,” says Jim Habig, owner of International Surf Properties.

Using his experience in the real estate business to sell properties in exotic, waverich locations, Habig recently went all in and has been developing a property of his own in Nicaragua’s prime surf zone.

Last winter, Habig purchased the La Jolla de Guasacate at Playa Colorado. With year-round offshore winds and well-sculpted sandbars, the location was ideal; but he still had rooms to fill.

At the start of the summer, he invited San Clemente icon Matt “Archy” Archbold to head south. They opened up some rooms for some of Archy’s most ardent fans and supporters for a couple of weeks. It was a big success, and now Habig and crew have lined up more VIPs to cruise down.

From July 13-20, pro surfer Gavin Beschen will be at the La Jolla de Guasacate.

There are still a couple of spots open and the forecast is looking rip if you’re interested in a last-minute strike mission with

A surf-rich tropical paradise is closer than you think.

Photo: La Jolla De Guasacate

the San Clemente icon-turned-Pipeline specialist.

Later this summer, local band Tunnel Vision will be wrapping up its Shipwrecked Tour at the La Jolla de Guasacate.

They’ll be surfing and jamming in Nicaragua from August 24-30.

Also on the docket, surf wear brand Vans is flying Hawaiian legend Larry Bertlemann down, Aug. 3-10. One of the most influential surfers of the 1970s, Bertlemann’s creative and innovative approach to riding waves not only changed the sport of surfing, but also had a dramatic effect on the skateboard culture of the time, most notably the Dogtown crew from Venice Beach.

“These guys are all our friends, and it’s epic to be able to have them come down and enjoy this place,” said Henry Ford, one of Habig’s business partners. “But it’s even more fun to be able to provide our regular guests and clients with an experience like this.”

Two dozen brand new-boards from …

Lost just arrived at the La Jolla de Guasacate and are at the disposal of all of the guests, so you don’t even need to pack a board bag.

If Lowers or Salt Creek is getting a little too busy with the summer traffic, we know a spot in Nicaragua that’s calling your name. DP

Cascia Collings. Photo: Courtesy of Dana Point Surf Club

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