November 8, 2019

LO C A L

N EWS

November 8-14, 2019 YO U

C A N

U S E

Editor’s Pick: Veterans Day Ceremony PAGE 8

VOLUME 12, ISSUE 45

The Dana Point Tourism Business Improvement District hotels from top to bottom, left to right: Beachfront Inn; Best Western Plus Dana Point Inn-by-the-Sea; Best Western Plus Marina Shores Hotel; Dana Point Marina Inn; Blue Lantern Inn; The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel; Capistrano Surfside Inn; DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel Doheny Beach; Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa; Monarch Beach Resort; Riviera Beach Spa Resort. Photos: Lillian Boyd

On Stage at The Coach House: X GETTING OUT/PAGE 10

Maryott Alleges Levin Received ‘Dark Money’ EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

danapointtimes.com

DH Football Playoff Miss Shows CIF Flaw SPORTS/PAGE 16

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

DP EYE ON DP Dana Point Point Dana

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

Five things Dana Point should know this week Dana Point Named the Most in Destination Guide for OC THE LATEST: A destination book author says she mentioned Dana Point most often among all cities cited in her new book, 100 Things to Do in Orange County Before You Die. Whether you’re a first-time visitor seeking surf, sun, and sand, or a lifelong local craving a deep dive into the region’s rich cultural history, this book will guide you to the best Orange County has to offer, Robin Rockey says.

Rockey runs an Instagram account that highlights unique things to do in Southern California. Followers would reach out with questions on how to plan an itinerary in the area and with requests for tours.

“I was looking for guidebooks to recommend when answering those messages, and I couldn’t really find any,” Rockey said. “I thought, ‘Orange County deserves its own guidebook to celebrate all we have to offer.’ ” Her guidebook went to print on Oct. 15 and is now available at Barnes & Noble, Costco, Amazon and at Hudson newsstands at the airport. Copies can also be ordered at orangecounty100.com.

Rockey has been an Orange County resident for 12 years and formerly worked for South Coast Water District. She says she got to know Dana Point, especially, because she would go explore the area on lunch breaks and after work.

“People in Orange County are so open and so proud of their county, willing to share things to see and do that made me want to pay it forward,” Rockey said.

WHAT’S NEXT: Rockey will hold a book signing event at San Clemente Library on Saturday, Nov. 16, at 2 p.m.—Lillian Boyd

Group Demonstrates with Signs in Reaction to Gender Bias Investigation THE LATEST: Dana Point City Council saw an organized demonstration comprised of more than a dozen people in support of Councilmember Debra Lewis in the wake of a gender bias investigation.

Attendees stood with signs that stated “Residents Support Debra Lewis,” as several speakers expressed frustration with Dana Point Times November 8-14, 2019

Dana Point City Council did not grant an appeal to a proposed hotel project neighboring Chart House on Cove Road and Green Lantern. Photo: Lillian Boyd

the investigation’s handling and conclusions reached.

The Nov. 1 edition of Dana Point Times reported that the investigator assigned to a discrimination and gender bias complaint that Lewis had filed against Mayor Joe Muller earlier this year determined the accusations to be unfounded. The complaint stemmed from a disagreement while behind the dais. Lewis says the investigation is a sham and had submitted a list of her objections to investigator Christine Exton, of Norman A. Traub & Associates, LLC. Lewis’s objections highlight that Exton was the second investigator hired after the first, Megan Miller, was determined to have a conflict of interest. According to Lewis, the conflict of interest was that Miller had previously retained a contract with Orange County Fire Authority, while Mayor Muller chairs the board of directors for OCFA. Exton used interviews and information Miller had collected and proceeded with the investigation.

In the conclusive remarks Exton made in the report, she states Lewis exaggerated, omitted important information and was inaccurate in her testimony. Ultimately, Exton determined that the allegations of discrimination and retaliation are unfounded.

The city has expended a total of $37,818.20 on the subject investigation.

No other costs had been incurred in the previous five years on discrimination investigations.

WHAT’S NEXT: For more information on the investigation, objections, the investigator’s response, and the incidents leading to Lewis’s

complaint, refer to the article “Conclusions Reached” at danapointtimes.com.—LB

Maryott Alleges Congressional Opponent Received ‘Dark Money’ THE LATEST: Republican Congressional candidate and San Juan Capistrano Mayor Brian Maryott has alleged that opponent and incumbent Rep. Mike Levin (D-Calif.) benefited “from hundreds of thousands of dollars in Democrat dark money over the past few months.”

In a statement on Monday, Nov. 4, Maryott said Levin and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi were on “full-blown damage control” during an event in Oceanside that same day. Maryott is campaigning for the seat in the 49th district held by Levin.

Representatives for Levin’s campaign and office did not respond to emails seeking comment as of press time. But a video taken during the community talk at the Oceanside event shows Levin and Pelosi speaking about getting dark money out of politics, including other issues.

The discussion mentioned the For the People Act, legislation aimed at enhancing the fairness of elections and curbing the political influence of big money. The legislation has been passed by the House of Representatives but has yet to be passed by the Senate.

“Everybody remembers the Citizens United decision, right?—(the) 2010 decision that really freed up a lot more dark money,” Levin said when discussing climate change and lack of action on it.

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“Unfortunately, since that decision, there has been $397 million of political spending, by the fossil fuel industry. A lot of that goes without reporting, without transparency.”

Maryott said in his statement it was “utterly apparent that Mike Levin is bought and paid for by D.C. political elites and out-of-state extremists.”

Maryott’s statement was linked to news stories about the allegations, including from opensecrets.org. OpenSecrets defines dark money as “political spending meant to influence the decision of a voter, where the donor is not disclosed and the source of the money is unknown” and “can refer to funds spent by a political nonprofit or a super PAC.” Campaign finance reform is an overarching issue that impacts other issues, and politicians should be engaged and responsive with the community instead of a handful of special interest groups, Levin said during the Oceanside event.

In a statement sent the day of the Oceanside event, Levin said that people he talks to in the district are “tired of Washington politicians who put corporate special interests first.”

Levin has approximately $1.185 million on hand, while Maryott has $361,446.88 on hand, according to Federal Election Commission records.—Collin Breaux

City Council Denies Appeal to Hotel Project on Green Lantern THE LATEST: In August, the Dana Point (Cont. on page 4) danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP (Cont. from page 4) Planning Commission unanimously approved a coastal development permit and conditional-use permit for construction of a hotel neighboring the Chart House, on Green Lantern and Cove Road. The project came before city council on Tuesday, Nov. 5 after it was appealed.

The planning commission had approved the permit under the condition that the architectural features originally included on the roof design exceeding the height limit were denied.

The decision was subsequently appealed to city council by Everett DeLano, an attorney representing the group “Concerned Residents of Dana Point.” DeLano was not present for the council meeting.

Opponents of the project had argued in the appeal that the project was not exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), though city staff determined it was exempt.

The site is located within the Coastal Development District of the Dana Point Specific Plan (DPSP)/Local Coastal Program (LCP), which is the applicable Local Coastal Program for properties directly above the Orange County Dana Point Harbor. The site lies within the California Coastal Commission appeals area of the Coastal Development District of the DPSP/LCP. In accordance with Implementing Actions Program of the DPSP/LCP, the Orange County Zoning

NEWS BITES DANA POINT TIMES

OCSD Warns Against Card-Skimming Orange County Sheriff’s Department in Dana Point issued a public awareness announcement to be cautious of card-skimming devices at gas pumps. According to the city’s police services, a local gas station employee reported finding the device, and investigators with the economics crime department and crime laboratory were notified.

“Please be aware that identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in the nation,” the OCSD announcement said on social media. “There is no actual way of knowing where the actual skimming of a credit card took place. Wireless and Bluetooth technologies have equipped criminals to wirelessly capture credit card numbers from businesses everywhere.”

The Economic Crimes Detail is responsible for investigating crimes associated with checks and credit card fraud, grand theft, theft of public funds, embezzlement, theft by false pretenses, consumer fraud, a variety of business fraud and identity theft, real estate fraud and elder financial abuse.

If you believe you’ve been a victim of identity theft, call 949.770.6011.

Dana Point Times November 8-14, 2019

Code (OCZC) is auxiliary to the DPSP, and for any item or issue not included in the DPSP land use regulations, the OCZC shall apply.

According to city staff documents, based on the project’s design and OCZC standards, a Coastal Development Permit is required for the development of a coastal bluff lot and lot merger, and a Conditional Use Permit is necessary for architectural features that exceed the height limit by less than 10 feet.

The DPSP requirement for the site states that a hotel use is the primary use for the project site, subject to the approval of a Coastal Development Permit.

City council voted to deny the appeal and approve the project, under the condition that landscape (trees) could not exceed 35 feet.—LB

Town Center Amendment for Ballot Voted Down THE LATEST: A proposal to amend the Town Center Plan—which stemmed from a letter sent on behalf of the Chamber of Commerce—was shot down by Dana Point City Council on Tuesday, Nov. 5.

The letter sent by the Chamber to Dana Point City Council in September requested that the city facilitate a ballot measure that

CalChamber Awards Bates for Vote Record The California Chamber of Commerce (CalChamber) has awarded Senator Patricia Bates (R-Laguna Niguel) a perfect score (18-0) in its 2019 Vote Record. She is one of nine state senators to have received a perfect score.

“CalChamber’s vote record provides Californians a measuring stick to judge their legislators on how they vote,” said Senator Bates. “I thank CalChamber for its recognition of my work to protect economic opportunity in every part of our state. The fight to protect our economy takes place every year in the Legislature, and I look forward to continuing that fight next year.”

CalChamber represents more than 14,000 companies in the state and is the largest broad-based business advocacy group in California. Membership represents one-quarter of the private sector jobs in California and includes firms of all sizes and companies from every industry within the state.

Saddleback Valley Students Helping People in Developing World Saddleback Valley Christian School has launched a new partnership with interna-

would reduce the 18-foot ground floor minimum height requirement to a 14-foot ground floor minimum height requirement for new development in the Town Center/Lantern District. The Town Center Plan was amended by the 2015 Town Center Initiative to include a provision that any future changes must be approved by a vote at a municipal election.

Michael Fox, chairperson for the Chamber’s board of directors, submitted the letter and also spoke at Tuesday’s meeting. While the letter urged the city to make an effort to amend the Town Center Plan, his statement before council scaled back on whether the Chamber took a position.

“Our intention was to initiate discussion, it was not to make an amendment,” Fox said. “The 14-18 feet would be good for small business. . . . It’s evolved the discussion to be more inclusive of other issues that need to be looked at. At this point, it’s kind of speculative discussion.”

Fox added he would take this discussion to the Chamber’s membership.

Mayor Joe Muller made a motion to neither approve nor deny the initiative and additionally reassemble a subcommittee to revisit the Town Center Plan and study all possible improvements and updates.

Councilmember Debra Lewis made an amended motion to deny the initiative altogether.

tional humanitarian organization World Vision to teach students about other communities and help people in the developing world.

“On Wednesday, Oct. 29, students gathered for the launch of the World Vision Ignite partnership at Saddleback Valley Christian School,” a news release stated. “Internationally known humanitarian speaker Steve Haas from World Vision delivered a message to the student body in three assemblies—setting a vision of the life-changing experience that awaits SVC students.”

The Saddleback Valley Christian community began a one-week experience on Monday, Nov. 4, to understand extreme poverty, including being hungry and not having enough water or clean clothes.

Other activities, including one-on-one interaction with sponsored children, are also planned during the school year.

“Throughout the school year, students will learn about the root causes of poverty, and work on projects locally and globally to help other children live better lives, ensuring that all children have enough to eat, a safe place to live, and a chance to learn,” the release said. “Funding from the partnership with World Vision will support long-term community development, helping ensure that all children not only have help for today, but a bright future longterm. A set group of students and school leaders will culminate the year of Ignite with a trip to visit the children and communities Saddleback is supporting.”

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“We need to look at the intended and unintended consequences of the Town Center Plan and how we might tweak it to get what the residents want. For now, we don’t have the staff capacity,” Councilmember Jamey Federico said.

Lewis argued that with Prado West still in construction, it would be too soon to understand amendments the Town Center Plan needs.

“We had the Chamber come forward with what I would charitably describe as tepid support,” Lewis said. “Now we have this entire plan that took years, a lot of money, a lot of meetings. We haven’t even seen the project yet. We’re falling over ourselves, because someone from the Chamber said we need to make a change.”

If the bottom line is the plan needs to be tweaked, the cost shouldn’t fall on the residents, Lewis added.

A motion to reassemble a Town Center Plan Subcommittee was brought forth

by Muller, but voted down, 3-2. Lewis’s motion to deny a city-sponsored ballot initiative for a Town Center Plan amendment was unanimously approved.

WHAT’S NEXT: Federico said he would personally offer his time to the Chamber if they were to form a committee to study possible improvements to the Town Center Plan.

The next regularly scheduled city council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 19.—LB

Community Meetings SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 9

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.

WHALE WALK & TALK 9-11 a.m. This walk focuses on the offshore visitors that can frequently be seen from the Dana Point Headlands. It is designed to introduce participants to our whale seasons, which are November to May. Participants will learn about Gray Whales, which migrate past Dana Point in the winter and spring months, and Blue and Humpback Whales (in the summer months). Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center, 34558 Scenic Drive. RSVP to DPNaturalResources@danapoint.org.

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

EYE ON DP

Destination: Dana Point Hotels Revamp Strategy to Market Dana Point as an Overnight Destination

BY LILLIAN BOYD, DANA POINT TIMES

T

he four largest hotels in Dana Point are The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel; Monarch Beach Resort; DoubleTree Suites Doheny Beach; and Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa—and you may have noticed that none of these hotels has Dana Point in the name.

With the newly approved and expanded Dana Point Tourism Business Improvement District, these four resorts are now joined by seven other Dana Point hotels to contribute assessments to fund more emboldened marketing strategies. The common goal set for the 11 hotels in the district will be to put Dana Point on the map as an overnight destination.

In addition to the big four hotels, the new DPTBID now includes Dana Point Marina Inn, Riviera Beach Spa Resort, Best Western Plus Marina Shores Hotel, Capistrano Surfside Inn, Beachfront Inn, Blue Lantern Inn and Best Western Plus Dana Point Inn-by-the-Sea. “This opportunity will allow hotels to come together, strategize, and put our resources toward improving our marketability,” said Visit Dana Point President Jonny Westom. “This, in turn, benefits the community and the City of Dana Point.”

There are surrounding TBIDs established in Anaheim, Carlsbad, Costa Mesa, Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach, Newport Beach and Oceanside. Westom says that with such a competitive market in the tourism industry, it’s imperative to have a proactive marketing strategy.

Visit Dana Point will serve as the DPTBID’s Owners’ Association and is in charge of managing funds and implementing programs in accordance with goals set by participating hotels. VDP will also present annual reports to city council.

Currently, the VDP Board of Directors ranges from five to seven directors, with four designated spots represented by the aforementioned four largest hotels. However, Westom says that VDP will be forming a TBID committee with an invitation to the smaller-scale hotels included in the TBID. The DPTBID will have a five-year term beginning July 1, 2020—which will be when assessments begin—and continue through June 30, 2025.

Westom says this will allow the TBID hotels to plan for tradeshows and business opportunities in the long term—a major advantage.

A previous TBID that had been formed in 2008 pursuant to the Business Area Law of 1989 was formed by the four large hotels to collectively market Dana Point as a destination.

Dana Point Times November 8-14, 2019

The newly formed Dana Point Tourism Business Improvement District (DPTBID) now includes a total of 11 hotels. Each hotel will pay assessments to go toward a more united marketing strategy to highlight the city as a destination. Graphic: City of Dana Point

City council affirmed creation of the tourism business district, as a public-private partnership, in 2009. That TBID began collecting a $3 per room, per night assessment in 2010 to collectively brand and promote Dana Point, which included advertising, public relations and marketing The city was and will be responsible for collecting the assessments on behalf of the TBID and redistributing them to Visit Dana Point.

For the Fiscal Year 2018-2019 ending on June 30, tourism revenues added up to more than $13 million.

“TBID strategies continue to support increased transient occupancy tax (TOT) revenue since the recession and have directly boosted revenues to both the resorts and the city,” Westom said.

Bruce Brainerd has been the general manager for The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel for more than 10 years. He served on the former TBID’s advisory board and says he looks forward to an expanded TBID that includes smaller hotels in Dana Point.

“By collaborating on the marketing together, we all share a single voice in how we position the destination, and we’re able to push our creativity in finding ways to put Dana Point on the map,” Brainerd said. “The TBID benefits us, other hotels and the community by raising awareness of the destination, along with attracting group business and overnight visitors to Dana Point. All of this helps builds our economy and, in return,

creates a better well-being for our city.”

The DPTBID, however, was not immediately applauded unanimously by all hotels within the district. On Sept. 24, Robert Jackson, the owner of Best Western Plus Marina Shores Hotel in Dana Point, submitted a letter to city council in opposition of the TBID. The letter asserted that the TBID favors the four big hotels in the sense that they control 74.17% of the rooms that will be assessed.

“The proposal allows for the city to approve the DPTBID unless owners of 50% or more of the assessed units object. This clearly favors the four hotels who are currently running and will continue to run the Visit Dana Point Group,” the letter stated.

The $3- and $5-per-room night is disproportionate when compared to the average daily rates at the various hotels, Jackson wrote.

“For example, a $3 charge on a $300 room night is 1% of revenues generated whereas a $3 charge on a $90 room night is 3.33% of the revenue generated. The math is similar with the $5 charge levied on larger properties. A $5 charge on a $450 room night is just a 1.11% surcharge, while on a $200 room night, it’s a 2.5% (surcharge).

No matter how you apply the charge, the flat rate charge weighs heavier on the lower priced guest room visits,” the letter said.

Jackson, in closing, wrote that he believes the city could promote itself much better since there is so much to offer tourists and overnight business guests. Neither Jackson, nor anyone

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representing Best Western Plus Marina Shores Hotel, responded to multiple requests for additional comment from Dana Point Times.

Westom says there have been conversations with Best Western Plus Marina Shores Hotel to address Jackson’s concerns.

“In good faith, the four big hotels have the increased assessment,” Westom said. “We want all hotels to benefit from this leisure campaign. Our marketing is going to focus on all the hotels in the district so that each hotel sees the rewards of this TBID.” Kelly Reenders, the economic development manager for the city of Dana Point, says the TBID has helped create awareness for Dana Point—and not just for conferences and group business, but for leisure travel, as well.

“It’s exciting to see commercials for Visit Dana Point on KTLA, and see how destination awareness is being leveraged through social media influencers and travel writers,” Reenders said. “These marketing efforts serve to strengthen our local economy and create revenue that can be invested back into the community.”

Westom says that starting in January 2020, committee meetings will begin to develop a sales and marketing plan for the upcoming fiscal year. The DPTBID assessment will be implemented in July 2020 for all 11 properties.

“That’s six months of a ramp-up time to welcome the new hotels, get to know each other, learn from each other and set goals to have a strong and united kick-start for this TBID,” Westom said. DP danapointtimes.com

DP SOAPBOX Dana Point

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

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HOW TO REACH US SENIOR 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 EDITORIAL Senior City Editor, DP Times > Lillian Boyd City Editor, SC Times > Shawn Raymundo City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Collin Breaux

> Debra Wells (SJC) Real Estate Sales > Lauralyn Loynes (DP) ART/DESIGN Art Director > Jasmine Smith Graphic Designer > Chelsie Rex OPERATIONS

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SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller

Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes > Traci Kelly (SC)

Letters to the Editor

CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Jake Howard, Tim Trent

Dana Point Times, Vol. 12, Issue 45. 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.

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Dana Point Times November 8-14, 2019

GEORGE RAY, Capistrano Beach

I wish to respond to recent letters from Dana Point residents concerning short-term rentals. I am an owner and operator of short-term rentals in Capistrano Beach. One of the letters comes from a property owner located between two short-term rentals. I would bet that this property owner is the one and only home in Dana Point in this particular situation.

I assume that this property owner has previously contacted the City to voice his concerns, and has met with the owners of these short-term rentals to resolve the issues. Certainly, any loud parties or other annoyances should be stopped immediately. The resident’s letter mentioned the traffic generated from the cleaning crews. These activities are really no different than the normal traffic generated by any owner and his family.

If this property owner was situated between two homes that had several dogs that barked all the time and attacked his children, there would be justification to deal with these animals. Does that mean that all dogs should be removed from Dana Point?

The other letter to the editor dealt with several separate issues: operational and the number of short-term rentals.

Those of us advocating short-term rentals believe that there should be solid restrictions on the total number and location of short-term rentals, to avoid the saturation of STR’s in any specific area of our city. We all want to have a vibrant community of local residents, but we can also share our community with visitors.

Short-term rentals, to a substantial degree, offer accommodations to visitors that can’t be adequately served by hotels. Many of our guests have kids and dogs, and these guests require yards and full kitchens to meet their needs.

My long-term tenants had large parties that were noisy; they were messy and had dogs that howled at night. One long-term renter turned his apartment into a marijuana grow house and got thrown in jail. My short-term rental guests have been perfect neighbors, and we have had zero complaints. They also eat at Dana Point restaurants and visit the Ocean Institute, go out on whale

watching tours and enjoy the Dana Point amenities.

BIASED INVESTIGATION, YOU BET! CAROL WILSON, Capistrano Beach

Responding to the front page story in last week’s Dana Point Times: I have firsthand knowledge of this “investigation,” as I was one of the people called to meet with the “investigator.”

First of all, I was sent a notice to appear to meet with an investigator with no information as to what it was about; when I called for more information, I was not given any.

So I showed up to meet with Kristine Exton, the investigator for the City of Dana Point in this matter. She then told me it was regarding a discrimination complaint by former Mayor Debra Lewis. When I asked her why I was not told beforehand so I could prepare, have clear answers and provide evidence, she said, “Oh, we don’t want you to do that, just ad-lib anything you remember”—in this case, for the last three years.

When the questioning began, it was more than evident the whole point of the investigation was to discredit Councilwoman Lewis. Most of the questions were framed about what Ms. Lewis was doing ( i.e., using social media to get support), and questions were carefully framed to put the blame on Ms. Lewis, not Mr. Muller.

I gave her many examples, but because I was not allowed any preparation beforehand, I could not give dates and as much detail as I wished. When I brought up that these events were recorded and available for viewing, she said, “I don’t have time to review any tapes.” She did offer me an address to send additional information to her, which I did, including several letters to the Dana Point Times over the past few years, letters to the city attorney, dates I spoke at council meetings, and at least three council meetings by date and the exact spot on the tapes where the discrimination occurred.

It’s no wonder she did not find anything wrong; her mind was made up the minute I walked in the door. Shame on Ms. Exton and the City of Dana Point for not having a fair and unprejudiced investigation.

ON THE INVESTIGATION NANCY LEONARD, Dana Point

When Councilmember Debra Lewis filed a formal complaint against Mayor Joe Muller, a fellow employee, alleging gender discrimination and harassment in violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the City had the duty to conduct an independent investigation. How this complaint was investigated—the process used—was fraught with bias. Further, the written report, fails, Page 7

by omission, to acknowledge key points concerning the investigative process.

The city first hired attorney Megan Miller to conduct the investigation. Evidently, neither the City Attorney nor the City Manager thought to determine prior to her hiring if Miller had a conflict or perceived conflict of interest with the city or any of the parties named in the complaint.

After her work began, Miller admitted to benefiting financially from the Orange County Fire Authority, of which Dana Point is a member. Muller, against whom the complaint is made, has served on the OCFA Board since 2014 and this year, the year of the investigation, served as its President. It was not until two months into the investigation that Lewis is informed of the conflict. The city wasted taxpayer money on an investigator who clearly has a conflict of interest and, could reasonably be argued, has a bias in favor of Muller.

It gets worse. The new investigator, Kristine Exton, is given Miller’s notes and uses the information in her report.

This act of sharing is briefly mentioned: “The new investigator reviewed all prior interviews.” Nowhere in the report does Ms. Exton indicate where she is relying on Miller’s facts and impressions. Exton, based on my research, does not re-interview those persons interviewed by Miller.

Yet, Exton reports on them as if she conducted the interviews. How can Exton speak to one’s credibility when she has not interviewed that individual?

This report is a shameful attempt by the city to conduct an “independent” investigation of an alleged civil rights violation perpetuated by Muller against Lewis.

Brandon Day, a Lincoln Club board member whose club endorsed Joe Muller and contributed to his 2018 campaign, somehow knew to make a Public Records Act request for the complaint and report. The Lincoln Club also contributed to the Dana Point Taxpayers Association, who spread lies about Joe Muller’s 2018 opponent. The DPTA has been sued and is being investigated by the Fair Political Practices Commission. It appears the Dana Point political machine is gearing up to use the sham report to spread more lies in 2020.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY

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Dana Point Times reserves the right to edit reader-submitted letters for length and is not responsible for the claims made or information written by the writers. Limit your letters to 350 words or less. Please send with your valid email, phone number and address for verification by staff. Your address and phone number will not be published.

danapointtimes.com

DP GETTING OUT Dana Point

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

The List

Camino Real. 949.492.3400. goodystavern.com.

What’s going on in and around town this week

Tuesday | 12

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 | 08 THE 30 DIVE CHALLENGE All day. The rules are simple. Accomplish 30 dives by December 31, and you’ll be eligible to enter into a raffle with numerous excellent scuba prizes from Beach Cities Scuba. The fun begins when you start accomplishing these dives anywhere in the world. Beach Cities Scuba, 34283 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point. 949.443.3858. beachcitiesscuba.com.

Saturday | 09 SUCCULENT-TOPPED PUMPKIN WORKSHOP/BRUNCH 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Through the mindful practice of crafting, you will learn to create a succulent-topped pumpkin for Thanksgiving centerpieces, holiday decor and gifts.

Led by Jamie, the owner of the studio and of Collective Energy Gardens. The pumpkins are not cut; they will last through the holidays. There will also be a light brunch, with snacks available. Bring a dish to share if you’d like. The cost to participate is $40 and includes all materials. RSVP to save your spot. For questions, contact Jamie via email at jamie@collectiveenergyyoga. com or by calling 760.696.6481. Collective Energy Yoga, 215 Avenida Del Mar, Suite L, San Clemente. collectiveenergyyoga.com.

At the Movies: ‘Parasite’

BY MEGAN BIANCO, DANA POINT TIMES

B

ong Joon-ho’s Parasite is a film about two families, one very poor and one very rich. But then again, it isn’t. There are so many twists and turns the story takes through its two-hour runtime that it would be difficult to properly detail the plot. So, to not possibly spoil any of the movie’s brilliance, I’ll just summarize the first 30 minutes.

Dana Point Times November 8-14, 2019

EDITOR’S PICK The annual Veterans Day ceremony in Dana Point honors servicemen and servicewomen with special presentations and a keynote speaker. Photo: File

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11: VETERANS DAY 10 a.m. Dana Point Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9934, Ladies Auxiliary and the City of Dana Point wish to recognize all Veterans for their service and sacrifices for America in this annual ceremony. The event will be held at Strand Vista Park, 34201 Selva Road, Dana Point. vfwpost9934.org

Sunday | 10

Monday | 11

LIVE MUSIC AT STILLWATER 6-9 p.m. The Crimson Crowbar will perform at StillWater Spirits & Sounds. This band is known for playing classic rock hits. StillWater Spirits & Sounds, 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point. 949.661.6003. danapointstillwater.com.

WHALE AND MARINE LIFE CRUISE 12:30-2:30 p.m. Join Ocean Institute’s marine educators for a special Veterans Day Whale and Marine Life Cruise. Explore the ocean from top to bottom while searching for some of the world’s largest and smallest creatures, including dolphins and whales, during this 2-hour marine life exploration cruise. Ocean Institute, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point.

949.496.2274. ocean-institute.org.

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 threecourse a la carte menu. Cost is $72. One Ritz Carlton Drive, Dana Point. 949.240.2000. ritzcarlton.com/LagunaDining.

In a fictionalized, unnamed South Korean town, the Kim family lives in the poorest neighborhood. Parents Ki-taek (Song Kangho) and Chung-sook (Jang Hye-jin) are unemployed and struggling in the current economy while their young adult children, Ki-woo (Choi Woo-shik) and Ki-jeong (Park So-dam), are struggling to work without college educations. One of Ki-woo’s former school friends, Min-hyuk (Park Seo-joon), convinces him that he can make some easy money from being a phony tutor to gullible families. Ki-woo then takes up Min’s offer to replace him as the English tutor of the richest family in the region.

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

Like with Memories of Murder (2003) and The Host (2006), the filmmaker shows once again that he is one of the more confident and natural auteurs working in film presently. All of the actors are spot-on in their portrayals of either lower class or the wealthy that help the movie work as both commentary and satire. This is one of those movies that hits multiple emotions and yet doesn’t feel out of place or badly paced, fortunately. With the exception of a couple of moments that go a little over the line with suspending disbelief and almost took me out of the movie, Parasite is easily the best foreign film of 2019 so far. DP

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LITTLE NATURALISTS: PARENT & ME PROGRAM 9:30 a.m. Bring out the “little naturalist” in your child and discover how humans are connected to the ocean, using different ocean animals as examples. Each Tuesday session of parent-and-me classes includes sensory exploration stations, an art project and a science activity. This program is suitable for children ages 3 ½-4 years old with parental support. A series pass is $100 for one adult and one child. It costs $50 for an additional child. Ticket purchases include an Ocean Institute naturalist backpack and completion certificate for each child.

Drop-in fees are $30 per session for one adult and one child and $15 for an additional child. This series runs from Nov. 5-26. Ocean Institute, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. 949.496.2274. ocean-institute.org.

Wednesday | 13 LIVE MUSIC AT IVA LEE’S 7 p.m. Join Iva Lee’s for live music every Wednesday through Sunday. For the ultimate live music experience, be sure to reserve a lounge table on Fridays and Saturdays. Check their website for the latest scheduled performances.

555 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente.

949.361.2855. ivalees.com.

Thursday | 14 READ TO A DOG 3-4 p.m. Children can read to a certified therapy dog at the San Juan Capistrano Library as part of the BARK volunteer program. Every other Thursday. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano.

949.493.1752. ocpl.org/libloc/sjc.

Photo: Courtesy of Neon Films / CJ Entertainment

danapointtimes.com

GETTING OUT

Legendary Southern California punk band X is playing X: XMAS with special guests The Blasters on Nov. 29-30 and Dec. 1 at The Coach House. Photo: Gary Leonard

On Stage at The Coach House: X

BY COLLIN BREAUX, DANA POINT TIMES

O

ver the years, the legendary punk band X has played The Coach House in San Juan Capistrano, and 2019 will be no different.

The Southern California act is playing X: XMAS with special guests The Blasters on Nov. 29-30 and Dec. 1. Original member John Doe said it’s one of the coolest jobs around when they step on stage.

“It’s a good place,” Doe said. “It’s a little weird with people eating, but they’re usually done by the time we start playing.”

Doe said the band has had a holiday run on the West Coast for about 10 years and sometimes drives hundreds of miles to get to a stop.

“We go up to Seattle, Portland, sometimes Phoenix,” Doe said. “People are in a good mood.”

As for The Coach House shows, it is familiar territory for X since most of the band lives in Orange County. Doe said there is usually good weather and positive feedback.

He likes going to San Francisco in particular and has friends all over the country.

A description on The Coach House website said X features vocalist Exene Cervenka, vocalist/bassist John Doe, guitarist Billy Zoom and drummer DJ Bonebrake.

“Their debut 45 was released on the seminal Dangerhouse label in 1978,” the website said. “While these songs were later re-recorded for their second album, the versions on Adult Book / We’re Desperate reveal X’s raw talent for totally sincere songwriting and stripped-down rock n’ roll. This past April, the band re-issued that first single, in its original 7-inch format, as limited edition colored vinyl.”

According to The Coach House website, The Blasters personify admirable traits of American music, with members Phil Alvin, Bill Bateman John Bazz and Keith Wyatt.

“Their influences range from the likes of George Jones and Carl Perkins to Ike Page 10

Turner, Howlin’ Wolf, James Brown and Big Joe Turner, all blending into a sound that ignores the lines between Rock & Roll, Country, Blues and Rockabilly,” the website said.

Along with keeping busy touring, Doe also recently released More Fun in the New World: The Unmaking and Legacy of L.A. Punk, his second book, which details the 1980s scene and is named after an X record. A number of people from that time were enlisted for the book, including Black Flag vocalist Henry Rollins.

“I’m more like a narrator,” Doe said.

“There are many experts. I’m not an authority. I’m just telling the stories.”

The book is about the DIY ethos the punk scene embodies and shows you don’t have to be an expert to play music or do something you like—you just have to be passionate. Punk rock has been a big influence on modern music and culture, Doe said, citing bands such as Green Day. The Coach House website said X “quickly established themselves as one of the best bands in LA’s flourishing first wave punk scene.”

With More Fun in the New World, Doe wants readers to experience what it was like to be on the West Coast during that time, when underground rock was bubbling up and the songs were fast and loud.

Doe’s second book has a five-star review rating on Amazon, with one review saying it’s a “wonderful walk down memory lane.”

Different people from various sub-genres were included in the book, said Doe, who noted factual accuracy is important when it comes to historical accounts.

“It’s a history book,” Doe said. “You want to make sure you’re covering the details.”

Doors open at 6 p.m. and show starts at 8 on Nov. 29-30; doors open at 5 p.m. and the show starts at 7 on Dec. 1. Priority seating can be made with dinner reservations by calling 949.496.8930. Visit thecoachhouse.com for more information. DP danapointtimes.com

DP Dana Point

DP LIVING

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

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

SC Couple Overcomes Relationship Challenges

S

an Clemente residents Chris and Christine (Tina) Anastasio are no strangers to my newspaper columns. In the 15 years I’ve known them, I’ve written about them twice.

Why the hoopla? Because, in the 26 years I’ve been writing newspaper columns, I’ve never met a senior couple who has endured as many relationship challenges as Chris and Christine.

Their story together began in 2004. Chris, as a dance host on a cruise ship, danced with Christine, a lovely widow of 18 months from England. After the cruise, they started corresponding, which began the longest, long-distance relationship of which I’m aware—5,419 miles between San Clemente and England.

When they could, they visited each other, and took trips together.

In 2009, I published a book titled How 50 Couples ON LIFE AND Found Love After 50. In their LOVE AFTER 50 story, which is included in

By Tom Blake the book, Chris states, “Every time we get together, it’s like a honeymoon.”

After 13 years of being an unwed, longdistance couple, Chris and Christine married on Feb. 12, 2017, at the Dana Point Yacht Club. My partner, Greta, and I attended the wedding, and I wrote a column about them.

But their challenges weren’t entirely behind them. Christine still had to return

to England from time-to-time, because she wasn’t eligible to permanently stay in the U.S. So, a month after their wedding, Chris and Christine started the legal process of securing a two-year, temporary green card for her, so she wouldn’t have to leave the country so often.

A year later, in February 2018, Chris emailed: “After jumping through all kinds of hoops last year, we finally had Christine’s green card hearing today. It was the last stop in the process.

“We were told to bring pictures, papers, letters or anything else that would prove we were a REAL couple. Christine suggested we bring your How 50 Couples Found Love After 50 book to the hearing.

“During the interview, I mentioned that we had become kind of famous because of our long-distance relationship. I said we were featured in your book, and handed it to him, with our page bookmarked.

“He started reading. His face lit up. He said, ‘This is great, I don’t have to see anything else. You have your green card.’

“It was amazing. That’s all he looked at.

We were out of there in less than a halfhour. You had a hand (and a big hand at that) in getting Christine her green card.

Thanks for your help.”

Their green-card story is why I wrote the second article about them.

Chris is now 85, and Christine turns 79 this December. Chris is well-known in South Orange County for his charity work.

One other thing about Chris, who is a U.S. Navy veteran. On the first anniversary of 9/11, at age 69, he put the American flag on the “A” marker buoy, via a kayak, just outside of Dana Point Harbor beyond the jetty in the Pacific Ocean.

Chris said, “I tended the flag every day from a kayak and changed it about every three months until I turned 80 and had heart surgery. The Dana Point Yacht Club said they liked it and would maintain it.”

This week, Chris emailed an update: “Christine’s two-year green card expires soon. So, we must go back in and apply for Christine’s 10-year, permanent green card.

photo was taken of Capistrano Beach looking south in 1930.

Every week, the Dana Point Times will showcase a historical photo from around the city. If you have a photo you would like to submit for consideration, send the photo, your name for credit as well as the date and location of the photo to lboyd@picketfencemedia.com.

Is it OK with you if we carry your How 50 Couples Found Love After 50 to the government office again? It brought great luck to us two years ago.

My reply: “Of course. Let me provide you with a fresh copy. Hopefully, it will help you get Christine’s permanent green card.”

Also, not letting age slow them down, Christine and Chris added, “We are taking a cruise over the holidays. We board the ship in Singapore December 18, and disembark in Dubai, January 2, 2020. We will watch the New Year’s Eve fireworks from the deck of

the ship in Dubai Harbor.”

Christine and Chris Anastasio are one of the most inspiring senior couples I know.

Tom Blake is a retired Dana Point business owner and San Clemente resident who has authored books on middle-aged dating. See his website at findingloveafter50.com. To comment: 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

BY MYLES MELLOR Last week’s solution:

DANA POINT TIMES

S

Dana Point Times November 8-14, 2019

FROM THE ARCHIVES This

Sudoku

Adoptable Pet of the Week: Rosita ix-month-old Rosita is now available for adoption. She has a sweet personality and is curious about everything around her. Rosita loves playing with the other kittens, especially her best friend, Midnight.

They can often be found cuddling or playing on the cat wheel together.

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

Photo: Courtesy of Orange County Archives

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

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 12

See the solution in next week’s issue.

danapointtimes.com

PUBLIC NOTICES TO ADVERTISE: 949.388.7700, EXT. 100 • LEGALS@PICKETFENCEMEDIA.COM PUBLIC NOTICE CITY OF DANA POINT NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on November 19, 2019 the City Council of the City of Dana Point will conduct a public hearing to consider the following: ADOPTION BY REFERENCE THE CALIFORNIA CODES OF REGULATIONS TITLE 24, PARTS 1-12, KNOWN AND DESIGNATED AS THE 2019 EDITION OF THE CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE, 2019 EDITION OF THE CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE, 2019 EDITION OF THE CALIFORNIA ELECTICAL CODE, 2019 EDITION OF THE CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE, 2019 EDITION OF THE CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE, 2019 EDITION OF THE CALIFORNIA ADMINISTRATIVE CODE, 2019 EDITION OF THE CALIFORNIA REFERENCE STANDARDS CODE, 2019 EDITION OF THE CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE, 2019 EDITION OF THE CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE, 2019 EDITION OF THE CALIFORNIA HISTORICAL BUILDING CODE, 2019 EDITION OF THE CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE AND THE 2019 EDITION OF THE CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE, MAKING AMENDMENTS THERETO, AND RELATED ACTIONS. Copies of the subject Codes and amendments are available for review in the City Building Official’s Office.

Hearing Date: Hearing Time: Hearing Location:

November 19, 2019 6:00 p.m. (or as soon thereafter as possible) Dana Point City Hall Council Chambers, Suite 210 33282 Golden Lantern Dana Point, CA 92629

Those desiring to be heard in favor of or in opposition to this item will be given an opportunity to do so during such hearing or by writing to the City Council at 33282 Street of the Golden Lantern, Suite 203, Dana Point, California 92629, Attention: City Clerk. Please reference hearing title and date of hearing in any correspondence. For further information, you may contact the City Clerk at (949) 248-3505.

Any petition for judicial review of a decision of the Dana Point City Council, is controlled by the statute of limitations provisions set forth in sections 2.50.010 and 2.50.020 of the Dana Point Municipal Code and Sections 1094.5 and 1094.6 of the California Code of Civil Procedure. Any action or proceeding to attack, review, set aside, or void and decision of the Dana Point City Council is controlled by Section 2.50.010 and Section 2.50.020 of the Dana Point Municipal Code. Copies of the procedures for the conduct of City Council public hearings are available from the City Clerk.

KATHY M. WARD, CITY CLERK 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: Site Development Permit SDP19-0016 - Located at 33862 Robles Drive: A request to permit the construction of a single-family dwelling (SFD) on a hillside condition lot and the construction of multiple retaining walls exceeding 30-inches in height Dana Point Times November 8-14, 2019

and visible from the public right-of-way. A Site Development Permit is requested, in accordance with provisions for structures on hillside lots and for retaining walls. The project also proposes the construction of a detached accessory dwelling unit (ADU) above a two (2) car garage, which is ministerial action pursuant to state zoning law.

Project Number: Project Location: Applicant: Owner: Environmental:

Hearing Date: Hearing Time: Hearing Location:

Site Development Permit SDP19-0016 33862 Robles Drive (APN 682-102-22) David Bailey, AIA Eddie Bandini Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the project is categorically exempt per Section 15303 of the CEQA Guidelines (Class 3 Construction or Conversion of Small Structures) since the project consists of the construction of a new SFD, an accessory structure with a garage and retaining walls.

Monday, November 18, 2019 6:00 PM (or as soon thereafter as possible) 33282 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, CA 92629 (Council Chambers)

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 Danny Giometti, Associate Planner at the City of Dana Point, Community Development Department, 33282 Golden Lantern, Suite 209, Dana Point, (949) 248-3569.

PUBLIC NOTICE

ta Ana, CA 92701. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: Date: October 3, 2019 JUDGE WALTER P. SCHWARM, Judge of the Superior Court Published: Dana Point Times October 18, 25, November 1, 8, 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 CDP18-0015: To permit the construction of a 4,881 square foot, two story single-family dwelling and an attached 711 square foot garage, located within the Coastal High Density Residential (C-RHD) zone of the Dana Point Specific Plan at 34312 Shore Lantern.

Project Numbers: Project Location: Project Applicant: Property Owner: Environmental:

Hearing Date: Hearing Time: Hearing Location:

CDP18-0015 34312 Shore Lantern (APN 682-331-16) Jason Florence Gene Bauman Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the project is found to be Categorically Exempt per Section 15303 (Class 3 – New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures).

November 18, 2019 6:00 PM (or as soon thereafter as possible) 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.

For further information, please contact John Ciampa, Senior Planner, at the City of Dana Point, Community Development Department, 33282 Golden Lantern, Suite 209, Dana Point, (949) 2483591.

Order to Show Cause For Change of Name Case No. 30-2019-01102200

PUBLIC NOTICE

To All Interested Persons: Terri Lee Quaranto, filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME A. Terri Lee Quaranto PROPOSED NAME A. Terri Shanklin Quaranto The Court Orders that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court of the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objective is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

Notice of Hearing Date: 12/05/2019 Time: 08:30 a.m. Dept.: D100 Window: 44. The address of the court is Central Justice Center, 700 Civic Center Drive West, San-

NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE Trustee Sale No. 146691 Title No. 190819752 NOTE: THERE IS A SUMMARY OF THE INFORMATION IN THIS DOCUMENT ATTACHED. YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST, DATED 08/19/2005. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. On 12/16/2019 at 9:00 AM, The Mortgage Law Firm, PLC, as duly appointed Trustee under and pursuant to Deed of Trust recorded 08/24/2005, as Instrument No. 2005000668427, in book xx, page xx, of Official Records in the office of the County Recorder of Orange County, State of California, executed by Eric Hill and Tara Hill, WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH, CASHIER’S CHECK/ CASH EQUIVALENT or other form of payment authorized by 2924h(b), (payable at time of sale in lawful money of the United States), Double-

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tree by Hilton Hotel Anaheim - Orange County, 100 The City Drive, Orange, CA 92868 - Auction. com Room. All right, title and interest conveyed to and now held by it under said Deed of Trust in the property situated in said County and State, described as: FULLY DESCRIBED IN THE ABOVE DEED OF TRUST. APN 668-381-11 The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be: 25561 Goldenspring Drive, Dana Point, CA 92629 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address and other common designation, if any, shown herein. Said sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by said Deed of Trust, with interest thereon, as provided in said note(s), advances, if any, under the terms of said Deed of Trust, fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust. The total amount of the unpaid balance of the obligation seemed by the property to be sold and reasonable estimated costs, expenses and advances at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale is: $748,445.75 If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee, and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. The beneficiary under said Deed of Trust heretofore executed and delivered to the undersigned a written Declaration of Default and Demand for Sale, and written Notice of Default and Election to Sell. The undersigned caused a Notice of Default and Election to Sell to be recorded in the county where the real property is located. Dated: 10/28/2019 THE MORTGAGE LAW FIRM, PLC Adriana Durham/Authorized Signature 27455 Tierra Alta Way, Ste. B, Temecula, CA 92590 (619) 465-8200 FOR TRUSTEE’S SALE INFORMATION PLEASE CALL (800) 280-2832 The Mortgage Law Firm, PLC. may be attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained may be used for that purpose. NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself.

Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property. NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call (800) 280-2832 for information regarding the trustee’s sale or visit this Internet Web site - www.

Auction.com - for information regarding the sale of this property, using the file number assigned to this case: 146691. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the Internet Web site. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale.

A-4709195 11/08/2019, 11/15/2019, 11/22/2019

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

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Dana Point Times November 8-14, 2019

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DP SPORTS & OUTDOORS Dana Point

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Dolphin Report

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, DANA POINT TIMES

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

Boys Cross Country Dominates League Finals

Dana Hills football posted its best season in 10 years, but the Dolphins couldn’t find a spot in the Division 12 playoffs. Photo: Alan Gibby/Zone57

On the Outside

DHHS football playoff miss shows inequity in CIF-SS system

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, DANA POINT TIMES

T

he Dana Hills football season is officially over after a last gasp of hope for a playoff spot was stomped out on Sunday, Nov. 3.

The Dolphins didn’t have to wait until the CIF-SS brackets were released at noon. When the at-large selections were revealed at 10 a.m., Division 12 was shown to be one of only two divisions without any at-large selections made, along with Division 14.

Despite a historic 6-0 start with wins over two teams in the Division 12 playoff field, Dana Hills finished 0-4 in Sea View League play and without an automatic berth. The Dolphins made their application for a playoff berth, but with more than 16 automatic qualifiers in Division 12, Dana Hills was left without a spot to fill.

“It’s definitely disappointing,” Dana Hills coach Phil Skinner said. “We had a good strong start. My seniors this year definitely deserved to have a taste of the playoffs.

That’s the goal, to be in position to make the playoffs.”

Dana Point Times November 8-14, 2019

It’s a hard pill to swallow after Dana Hills’ best season since 2009, because if the Dolphins had been in just about any other division, they would have made the playoffs. It’s even tougher because of some eyebrow-raising at-large selections in other divisions.

Dana Hills had a better win-loss record than 26 of the 39 at-large selections. There were 17 at-large playoff teams with a sub.500 record, including nine 3-7 teams, four 2-8 teams and one 1-9 team. Fellow Coast View Conference member El Toro was the 1-9 playoff qualifier and has drawn some ire locally.

The Chargers went winless in South Coast League play with a 31-point average margin of defeat in those league games, and El Toro’s lone win was by only three points over El Dorado of Las Vegas, which is 1-8 going into its season finale.

However, El Toro was one of six at-large selections in Division 4, which showcases a current inequity in the CIF-SS football playoff system. Division 4 has only 19 teams, but 16 teams make the bracket. It hasn’t been reported why the three teams that didn’t make the field (Paloma Valley, Charter Oak and Yucaipa), but all three had a better record than El Toro and still had a worse record than Dana Hills (4-6, 4-6 and 3-7, respectively).

In Division 12, there are 46 teams competing for 16 playoff spots, which is more than double the amount of teams in each of the top 10 divisions. In those upper divisions, there aren’t enough automatic qualifiers to fill out the bracket, so there were

five at-large selections each in Divisions 3, 5 and 8 and six each in Divisions 4 and 9.

On the flip side, Division 12 actually had too many automatic qualifiers for its playoff field. Rowland and Bell Gardens were automatic qualifiers left out of the bracket, and Glenn is a league champion that has to open on the road, despite CIF-SS rules promising league champions a first-round home game regardless of seeding.

In simple terms, despite a better record than two teams in the Division 12 bracket and wins over two teams in the Division 12 bracket, Dana Hills was still third in the pecking order of teams left out in Division 12. If the Dolphins had been in any one of at least six other divisions, Dana Hills might have had a true playoff shot this season.

At the end, though, Skinner and the Dolphins know that, divisional inequity aside, their failure to win a game in league ended their playoff chances. As things broke down, Dana Hills would have needed to finish 9-1 and second in the Sea View League to make the playoffs, which would have been difficult punching up against Division 4 San Juan Hills, Division 8 Aliso Niguel and Trabuco Hills and Division 11 Laguna Hills, all of whom made the playoffs.

“That’s the way it was set up this year,” Skinner said. “It’s not there yet. We know we have an extraordinary amount of work ahead, but the kids have a taste of what’s going to need to happen. Just something to look forward to for us for next year (in the Pacific Coast League).” DP

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The Dana Hills boys cross country team obliterated the field at the South Coast League Finals on Wednesday, Nov. 6 at Irvine Regional Park.

The Dolphins’ five scoring runners finished first through fifth for a perfect team score of 15, with their two alternates finishing in eighth and ninth. Even more impressively, all seven Dana Hills runners posted personal-record times in the threemile race.

Sophomore Jai Dawson took the league title at 14:17, with senior Carrick Denker finishing in second at 14:23. It was Denker’s first race since cutting his hand at the county championships.

Gianni Viola was third at 14:41, Brandon Pizano was fourth at 14:43, Joseph Moersch was fifth at 14:52, Ethan Johnson was eighth at 15:02, just ahead of Ryan Broadhead in ninth, also at 15:02.

Dana Hills beat second-place El Toro, 15-58.

The Dana Hills girls finished second to El Toro, 27-63, and senior Marisa Gaitan finished third with a personal record of 17:07. Five Dana Hills girls runners set personal records.

Playoff Results Dana Hills boys water polo and girls tennis each lost their CIF-SS playoff openers on Wednesday, Nov. 6.

Boys water polo was edged by Los Alamitos, 7-6, in the first round of Division 2. Dana Hills had beaten Los Alamitos in the first round last season, 9-8.

Luke Malecka scored three goals for the Dolphins, and his shot attempt to tie in the game’s final seconds rang off the crossbar. It was the final game for retiring Dana Hills coach Matt Rosa.

Girls tennis lost its Division 1 opener at King of Riverside, 14-4. The Dolphins lost their first 11 matches of the season before rallying in league and winning a thirdplace tiebreaker match. DP danapointtimes.com

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DP DP SURF Dana Point

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

Team USA Takes the Gold

San Clemente surfers help lead the charge at 2019 ISA World Junior Surfing Championship

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

O

ver the weekend in Huntington Beach, with the sun shining and playful waist-high peaks on offer, Team USA once again asserted itself as the world’s premier national surf program. Capturing its second team gold medal in three years, it was a striking performance from everyone involved with the flourishing program.

“The level of talent at the ISA World Junior Championships is escalating at an exceptional pace. These are the surfers you will be seeing on the WSL Championship Tour and Olympics,” said USA Surfing CEO Greg Cruse.

This iteration of the U.S. Junior National Surf team was comprised of 12 surfers, including five from San Clemente: Taj and Sawyer Lindblad, Nico Coli, Samantha Sibley and Kirra Pinkerton.

“Coach Brett (Simpson) did a masterful job filling the roster with young, new talent that proved themselves in one of the most challenging competitions they will face in their careers,” Cruse said proudly.

The American team’s gold-medal effort was anchored by a huge breakout performance from Ventura’s Dimitri Poulos. Only getting the call to join

GROM OF THE WEEK:

TAJ LINDBLAD

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

S

an Clemente’s Taj Lindblad took home the silver medal for Team USA in the highly competitive Boys Under-16 Division, making him the highest-placing local surfer at the 2019 ISA World Junior Surfing Championship in Huntington Beach this past weekend. The accomplishment helped propel Team USA to its third team gold medal in the past five years.

“Long but fun week and a half up in HB,” Lindblad wrote on his Instagram feed. “Super stoked to end up 2nd this year in the U 16. Also, we did it! USA won gold!”

Dana Point Times November 8-14, 2019

Team USA celebrates its gold medal at the 2019 ISA World Junior Surfing Championship in Huntington Beach on Sunday, Nov. 3. Photo: Courtesy of ISA

the team two days before the contest started, he stepped up huge to win the gold in the Boys Under-18.

“The support of USA has been insane!” Poulos said afterward. “Everyone is down on the beach screaming for me.”

Poulos was joined in the final by Florida’s Tommy Coleman, who won the bronze. In total, the Stars and Stripes took home five individual medals. For the local San Clemente contingent, Taj Lindblad did the area proud, coming away with a silver medal in the Under-16 Division. This marked the American junior team’s third gold medal since 2015, including another in 2017.

The team from Hawaii also enjoyed its fair share of success atop the podium.

Jackson Bunch took the gold in the

Boys Under-16, while Gabriela Bryan won the Girls Under-18.

“It’s pretty awesome to win gold,” Bunch said after the awards ceremony.

“I was reviewing the past champions of this event, and I couldn’t believe how many people on (the World Surf League Championship) tour had won this event.”

Demonstrative of just how global the sport of surfing has become in recent years, Germany’s Noah Lia Klapp came out of nowhere to win gold in the Girls Under-16 and a bronze in the Girls Under-18. She was the winningest surfer of the championships.

“It feels great to see all the hard work pay off,” Klapp said. “Team Germany is the best team that I could ask for.

They’re amazing.”

Besides training for the national team, Lindblad’s been keeping plenty busy with other aspects of his surfing. A distinguished member of the San Clemente Board Riders, he’s not just surfing for personal glory, he’s also helping uplift and unite his community.

He recently finished fifth at the RVCA Pro Junior in Newport Beach, which was won by Lowers sparring partner Jett Schilling. Taj also dipped his toes into the WSL’s Qualifying Series this season, getting a taste for the next level of competition. Over the summer, Lindblad claimed his first NSSA Open Men’s National Title.

Along with his sister, Sawyer, the Lindblads are two of the hardest-working groms in the area, and with all the recent successes, the effort is clearly paying off. DP

Going into the final day, the gold was a toss-up between the emboldened Japanese team that had won its first-ever team gold in 2018 and the American all-stars. Team USA held the lead by a mere 585 points. Hawaii and Spain were also in medal contention. Interestingly, both Australia and France, who have been at the forefront of the Olympic movement, found themselves chasing the field.

When it was all done, the U.S. held on for the team gold, Hawaii scored the silver, Japan took home the bronze, and Spain earned copper.

“The young talent was flaring in Surf City, USA! Huntington Beach threw every kind of condition imaginable at these kids, and they just tore into it, putting up big scores at just the right times,” said Team USA Coach Brett Simpson. “These are names you are going to see again and again in the surf scene.”

Not only did the Americans win the team gold, they also took home the coveted Aloha Cup. Defending their title in the team event on Saturday, Nov. 2, the drama came down to the final waves for each team, but the Americans were able to hold off a powerful Spanish team, ultimately earning the gold by less than three-tenths of a point.

“I’m speechless!” said Samantha Sibley after the win on Saturday. “Taro (Watanabe) came through on his last wave. I’ve known all my teammates for what seems like forever, so it’s amazing to win this gold medal with them.”

As the profile of competitive surfing continues to evolve internationally, the surfers competing in the junior championship this year could very well be the ones leading the charge when the Olympic Games are contested in Paris in 2024 or in Los Angeles in 2028. DP

SURF FORECAST Water Temperature: 66-68 Degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: 8-12 Outlook: Wave size fades a little on Friday, then holds with waves in the waiststomach high zone,(2-3’+ faces) through the weekend. Light/variable winds for the mornings, followed by light+ West onshores in the afternoons. Fresh S swell is scheduled for next week. For the latest details be sure to visit Surfline.com.

Taj Lindblad. Photo: Courtesy of ISA

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