September 6, 2019

LO C A L

N EWS

September 6-12, 2019 YO U

C A N

U S E

Dana Point Resident Granted Wish to Meet Favorite Band PAGE 13 VOLUME 12, ISSUE 36

2019 Dolphin Fall Sports Preview

DHHS Teams Strive to ReclaimLeague Titles, Adjust to Change S P O R T S / PAG E 1 6

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Dana Hills boys water polo advanced to the program’s third CIF-SS semifinal last season, and despite offensive losses, the Dolphins will challenge again with a strong defense led by goalie Justin Edward. Photo: Zach Cavanagh

Public Watchdogs Sues SCE

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Councilmembers Debate Policy Compliance EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

“Follow the Light” Recognizes Surf Photography SURF/PAGE 18

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LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

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Five things Dana Point should know this week Public Watchdogs Sues SCE, Calls for Immediate Halt to ‘Burial of Nuclear Waste’ THE LATEST: A nonprofit advocacy group is suing Southern California Edison, Holtec international and other stakeholders for their handling of nuclear waste.

The group Public Watchdogs also announced on Aug. 29 that it is seeking a temporary restraining order (TRO) to “stop the beachfront burial of nuclear waste” at San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS), in addition to the lawsuit.

The group is requesting an immediate court-ordered halt to the transfer of the waste into “thin-walled” dry-storage canisters.

“My immediate concern is for the health and safety of the millions of people who could be impacted by a toxic cloud being released from SONGS,” said Chuck LaBella, the attorney for Public Watchdogs. “The consequences of a nuclear accident are catastrophic and would last for generations.”

The Aug. 29 motion for preliminary injunction and temporary restraining order names Southern California Edison Company and San Diego Gas & Electric Company, Holtec International, Sempra Energy, and the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission as the defendants. The motion states that there is an imminent danger that the canisters will fail and release deadly nuclear waste into the surrounding area and cause catastrophic harm due to mismanagement and mishandling.

In the Aug. 29 complaint, Public Watchdog alleges the defendants committed a public nuisance and violated the Administrative Procedure Act. According to Public Watchdogs, the defendants in the suit plan to transfer toxic nuclear waste at SONGS from the relatively safe “wet storage” (stored in pools in Units 2 and 3), into 73 “thin-walled” dry canisters.

“Neither the canisters nor the decommissioning plan have undergone a proper risk assessment. Nor has an objective risk assessment been done to determine if the canisters are safe for storing nuclear waste on a short-term basis, much less to determine if the burial location within yards of the Pacific Ocean, in a tsunami zone, and on several earthquake faults, is safe,” a Dana Point Times September 6-12, 2019

Public Watchdogs Director Nina Babiarz raises several concerns with Nuclear Regulatory Commission over Southern California Edison’s procedures to transfer nuclear waste at the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station at a town hall meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 20. Photo: Shawn Raymundo

Watchdog media release states.

John Dobken, the spokesperson for SCE, says the lawsuit runs counter to the expressed interest of the communities adjacent to the San Onofre nuclear plant by potentially stranding spent fuel on site, even when options for transport and offsite storage or disposal become available.

“Placing spent nuclear fuel into approved canisters that meet all technical, safety and regulatory requirements for onsite storage is the first step to relocating the fuel to an off-site, federally licensed facility,” Dobken said in an emailed statement. “The local communities near San Onofre have made it abundantly clear that storing the fuel safely on site and then moving the fuel to such a facility as soon as possible is their strong desire and in their best interest. SCE shares these objectives and is working diligently towards achieving them. By 2021, more than 80 percent of the spent fuel stored at San Onofre will be eligible for transport off-site. Being ready means having all fuel safely in dry storage and in transportable canisters.”

WHAT’S NEXT: To view the full complaint and motion, visit danapointtimes.com.

—Lillian Boyd

Differing Views on Policy and Procedures Come to Light in Council Meeting THE LATEST: Dana Point City Council met on Tuesday, Sept. 3 for one agenda item, brought forth by Councilmember Debra Lewis.

The recommended action was for city council to discuss and revise Policy 214, in light of the recent letter sent to Chairperson Lisa Bartlett of the OC Board of Supervisors.

The letter was signed by seven South

County mayors—including Dana Point Mayor Joe Muller—in hopes of setting up a meeting with Bartlett while proposing the elimination of Service Planning Areas (SPAs)—the county’s region-based method to offer services for health care and homelessness. The SPAs currently divide the county into three regions: north, central and south.

“We don’t want any member of council to misrepresent what the city’s position is.

Nobody is objecting to the contents of this letter,” Lewis said.

Lewis stated that it was a matter of process, adding that other members of the community had learned about the letter before she had.

The initial agenda item expressed Lewis’s concern for the alleged violation of City of Dana Point City Council Policy 214.

“The Policy is intended to leave no doubt in the mind of anyone receiving a City Council Member’s communication as to whether or not that Council Member is speaking in his/her official capacity or merely as an individual,” Lewis’s staff report states.

During discussion, Councilmember Richard Viczorek said he found no violation of Policy 214 and cited a specific portion of it.

“Advocating the city’s position may be formally communicated to other agencies on the city letterhead only by the city manager or city attorney provided that the communication simply reiterates existing city council policy. Such letters may be signed by the city manager or the mayor,” Viczorek said, reading from the published policy.

In the letter that was sent to Bartlett, there was no letterhead representing the City of Dana Point.

“I feel like the policy is clear. I didn’t find any violation; therefore, I don’t feel the need to replace it. But I appreciate the motion in order to discuss this and make sure we’re clear,” Viczorek said.

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During discussion, Lewis said she was not so much concerned with whether the policy was violated but rather the steps taken in how council had access to information. She referenced an instance in which the Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA) requested Muller to take an official position on a city letterhead.

“The TCA letter was sent to our mayor.

It was sent to our mayor because that’s who is seen as who represents our city, with a specific request to put this on your letterhead and send it out. Whether the mayor did that or not, it’s not really the issue. The issue is this should be something we all know about,” Lewis said. “It shouldn’t be something we learn about because people ask me, and I say I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

During Councilmember Jamey Federico’s commentary, he asked where the line would be drawn before referencing a social media post where Lewis identified herself as the former mayor and current councilmember for Dana Point. In the post, she allegedly calls Federico a sleazy politician.

“People use their titles all the time. Did I love that (post)? No . . .” Federico said.

“Frankly, Policy 214 works, and we need to put this to bed.”

Muller later took issue with the notion that the discussion was not about whether there was a policy violation.

“The staff report basically states the mayor has violated this policy. There was no violation of the policy. I signed my name to it. It’s not on a city letterhead. It didn’t say this is the direction of the city council,” Muller said. “I find it interesting that all of a sudden that that’s not the issue here tonight, when you put it out there twice that I violated policy. It’s in the staff report and it’s in the paper. It’s an issue for me . . .

“I think it needs to be very clearly explained right now that that did not happen.

I was allowed to do what I did.”

Mayor Pro Tem Paul Wyatt amended Lewis’s motion to adopt her Policy 214 amendment. His motion was to add a disclaimer block to city emails in the future, specifying whether the correspondence was official or unofficial city position. The amendment also called to adopt the following portion of Lewis’s proposed policy: “If after given the opportunity to review, discuss and debate the Urgent Communication, the entire City Council votes against the item and/or any specific language in the document(s), the City Council member who sent the Urgent Communication must immediately communicate in writing to the same party(ies) the contrary action that was taken by the entire City Council after its review. The follow-up communication must include the vote and any substitute language agreed to by a majority of the City Council.”

(Cont. on page 4) danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP (Cont. from page 3) A roll call vote was held, and the motion passed, 4-1, with Lewis casting a no vote.

“Did you think that that was on behalf of the city?” Lewis asked Federico, regarding the social media posts. “Which is what the whole purpose of this is? I’m voting no.”

WHAT’S NEXT: The next city council meeting will be held at 6 p.m on Tuesday, Sept.

17 at Dana Point City Hall, 33282 Golden Lantern, Dana Point. The minutes for the Sept. 3 meeting will be available at that time and include the specific and final draft of verbiage for the approved motion.

Local Author Addresses Suicide, Mental Health in New Book THE LATEST: Dana Point author Kristi Hugstad will publish her new book, Beneath the Surface: A Teen’s Guide to Reaching Out When You or Your Friend Is in Crisis, on Sept.10, which is also World Suicide Prevention Day. September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness month.

Author Hugstad has dedicated her life to helping abolish the stigma of mental illness and suicide ever since her husband, who struggled with clinical depression for years, died by suicide in 2012.

That mission, along with an increase in teen suicide and mental health issues in recent years, are what inspired her to write Beneath the Surface.

A certified grief recovery specialist and a grief and loss facilitator for recovering addicts at South Coast Behavioral Health, Hugstad frequently speaks at high schools.

She is also the host of The Grief Girl podcast and lives in Dana Point. Visit her online at thegriefgirl.com.

While growing up has never been easy, today’s teens face unique challenges. In addition to dealing with cliques and peer pressure, they live in a fast-changing social media world that exposes and makes people vulnerable as much as it connects.

In Beneath the Surface: A Teen’s Guide to Reaching Out When You or Your Friend Is in Crisis (New World Library), Hugstad talks with, rather than down to, teens (and the parents and teachers who love them), about issues such as depression, eating disorders, PTSD, anxiety, bullying, substance abuse, suicide and more. She encourages them to reach out for help when they need it.

The book includes real-life examples of young people who have suffered depression firsthand. It aims to help readers recognize the risk factors and warning signs. It offers practical exercises to help readers quickly and confidently identify whether they or someone they know are in need of help, and if so, what to do and where to go for it.

WHAT’S NEXT: Hugstad will be doing a meet-and-greet book signing at Beach Dana Point Times September 6-12, 2019

Town Books, 99 Avenida Serra, on Saturday, Sept. 28 from 2-5 p.m. There will also be a drawing in which winners get the chance to send free copies of the book to a school of their choice.—Cari Hachmann

CUSD Maintains its Distance from Nonprofit Organization THE LATEST: For about the past year, the Capistrano Unified School District has been working to distance itself from a nonprofit group whose former director has been accused of embezzling funds that were raised to benefit local students and schools.

Up until last year, the nonprofit, which was established in 1992, shared its name with the district, operating as the Capistrano Unified School District Foundation.

However, other than the names, the entities are totally separate, officials from both camps have stressed.

“It should be made clear that we were never an official arm of the district,” says Foundation President Larney Fowler.

Last October, the CUSD Board of Trustees adopted a resolution directing the CUSD Foundation to “cease and desist from raising funds as the CUSD or Capistrano Unified School District Foundation, or in any way that suggests to unwitting donors that the CUSD Foundation is endorsed by, or in any form associated with, the Capistrano Unified School District.”

As far as the Foundation is concerned, it’s fine with the split, Fowler said.

The organization, which raises money to “enhance the educational experience of students attending public schools within” the district, now goes by the name CARE Foundation—Contributing Academic Resources to Education.

According to CARE, it has raised more than $2 million since its inception. And, on its website, CARE emphasizes that it is “not affiliated with or associated with the District.”

“We never give money to the district; we have a number of fundraisers throughout the year and we raise money,” he said.

“Our mission is to help enhance the education experience for students who attend the district, but we don’t give money to the district at all.”

The monies raised, Larney further explained, have gone to fund such things as cross-country field trips for students and local educational programs.

The district’s decision to distance itself from the Foundation came amid concerns raised over the group’s management of funds, which had stemmed from allegations that its former executive director, Michelle Colleen Hart, had been siphoning money from the nonprofit.

Hart, who ran the organization from mid2014 to 2017, has denied that accusation.

After the district was made aware of these allegations in April 2018, CUSD

requested that the foundation turn over all funds in its possession that were raised for the benefit of district schools; turn over all financial accounting; and present all pending and future donation requests to the district’s deputy superintendent.

The Foundation denied to comply with those requests, stating that it would be illegal to transfer or turn over funds or approval authority to a public school district, Dana Point Times previously reported.

That refusal to meet the district’s demands was the basis for CUSD severing ties, CUSD spokesperson Ryan Burris said.

“They never provided the district the opportunity to independently audit their bank accounts, so we issued the ceaseand-desist,” Burris said. “They’re working independently from us, and we do not work for or support them.”

When the Foundation didn’t turn over such information, Burris added, the district asked the booster clubs and other district-affiliated groups who were holding money in the Foundation’s account to directly ask for those funds independently.

“Based on their requests,” Burris said, “it does sound like they were” able to recover those monies.

Larney, who has been the president of CARE for about the past five years, acknowledged the CUSD board’s feelings on the matter, stating that “the district and our foundation were going in different directions.”

Late last month, the Orange County District Attorney’s office and Orange County Sheriff’s Department announced that Hart had been formally charged and is accused of embezzling more than $42,000 from the Foundation.

She currently faces six felony counts of misappropriation or embezzlement of monies by a public officer for allegedly “writing checks to herself and making unauthorized purchases on the CUSDF bank card.”

The Foundation, a year ago this month, filed a lawsuit against Hart, alleging that she “misappropriated funds in excess of $50,000 . . . for her personal gain, during her entire tenure as Executive Director,” court documents state.

According to the lawsuit, the Foundation alleges that in December 2017, Hart “admitted” she had misappropriated the money before resigning as director. It goes on to state that she “made dozens of fraudulent charges under the guise of her position as an Executive Director.”

“Additionally, Hart represented that there were less funds donated by donors and boosters than there actually (were) in order to cover up her misappropriations,” the lawsuit states.

Those same court documents explain that when Hart was first hired in May 2014, she was promised $1,500 a month plus a 20% commission on all money raised for the Foundation in exchange for 20 hours a week of work. In May 2015, Hart’s monthly compensation was raised to $2,000 while her commission was de-

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creased to 12%.

By 2017, her compensation had risen to $5,000 a month with no commission.

In response to the Foundation’s lawsuit, Hart acknowledges that she diverted some of the nonprofit’s funds and notified the group’s directors; however, she disputes the $50,000 amount she’s accused of embezzling.

“Hart informed members of the board of directors that from the time period of November 2015-December 2017, Hart diverted some of the plaintiff’s funds for her personal use,” a November court filing states. “She fully intended to, and committed to, repay those funds, but admits that she has not yet repaid those funds.”

Hart, a resident of Fresno County, was arrested by the Fresno Police Department and is being held on $42,088.91 bail— the amount of money she is accused of embezzling, the DA’s office said in a press release.

According to the DA, CARE brought in a Certified Public Accountant to “review the foundation’s financial records in order to determine the scope of the loss,” and OCSD’s “Economic Crimes Detail investigated the case and turned it over to the District Attorney’s Major Fraud Unit for review.”

WHAT’S NEXT: According to Kimberly Edds, the public information officer for the DA’s office, Hart is scheduled to be arraigned on Sept. 20.—Shawn Raymundo

Chamber Announces Departure of President/ Executive Director THE LATEST: The Dana Point Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors announced that the chamber’s president, Bev Jorgensen, will be leaving the chamber in the coming weeks.

The announcement was made in a press release sent out at noon on Thursday, Sept. 5.

“On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank her for her work the past few years and wish her every success in the future.

Bev has guided the Chamber with a steady hand, protecting its revenues and maintaining a strong fiscal policy,” said Chamber Chairman Michael Fox. The release states that Jorgensen established important working relationships with new businesses, community leaders and stakeholders as well as local, state and federal officials on behalf of the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce.

“I have hugely enjoyed my time at the Dana Point Chamber. I leave the Chamber both financially and operationally strong. I am very confident that the Dana Point Chamber will continue to deliver value for members and citizens alike. I will continue to shop and play in Dana Point and support the local businesses whom I have grown to love,” Jorgensen said in the press release.—LB danapointtimes.com

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NEWS BITES

Community Meetings

DANA POINT TIMES

DSBIA Sponsoring Wildlife Cruise The Doheny State Beach Interpretive Association is sponsoring its annual Wildlife Cruise on Sunday, October 6. The cruise will take place on the Dana Pride of the Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching fleet and will depart from the Dana Point Harbor at 5 p.m.

The cruise is a gift to all current members and is a membership incentive for those who join the DSBIA before the event. Drinks and galley grub will be provided to the members as they mingle and view all of the different wildlife they will encounter along the sunset of this journey.

Membership forms are available online at DonehyStateBeach.org and, if space is available, at the check-in table on the dock the day of the event. To RSPV or for questions, email kwade@dohenystatebeach. org.

The DSBIA is a nonprofit organization in association with Doheny State Beach to protect and preserve the beach and its marine life, as well as provide education to the community and grants to local schools and graduating seniors.

Senate Republicans Approve Legislation for Including Lao History in Education Curriculum Members of California Senate Republican Caucus, including Senator Patricia Bates (R-Laguna Niguel), recently voted in support of Assembly Bill 1393, which requires the Instructional Quality Commission to develop and adopt curriculum for Lao history and cultural studies to California’s K-12 schools by March 2023.

Senate Bill 895 authored by former Senator Janet Nguyen (R-Fountain Valley) included the experiences of Vietnamese, Cambodian genocide, and Hmong history to California’s K-12 curriculum. With the passage of AB 1393, Laotian history and cultural studies will be added to the curriculum.

Senate Republican Leader Shannon Grove (R-Bakersfield), Senator Bates, Senator Andreas Borgeas (R-Fresno), and Senator Ling Ling Chang (R-Diamond Bar), are co-authors of AB 1393. Senator Grove issued the following statement: “California is ranked one of the top five states where there is a large Laotian American population. We need to recognize their important contributions to America’s history. While history books have edu-

Dana Point Times September 6-12, 2019

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7

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.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 9

Passengers can board the Dana Pride for the annual Wildlife Cruise, which is sponsored by the Doheny State Beach Interpretive Association. Photo: File

cated our students about the struggle of the Vietnam War that lasted nearly three decades and left behind a trail of bloodshed, they barely mentioned the history of Laos and Cambodia. Vietnam was always at the heart of that conflict, but the battlefield also extended to those two countries where the United States waged a Secret War with assistance from Laos.”

OCTA Receives 9th National Award for Contract Procurements The Orange County Transportation Authority has earned the 2019 Achievement of Excellence in Procurement Award, the ninth consecutive year OCTA has received the award that recognizes best practices for procuring public contracts.

The award is given by the National Procurement Institute and is earned by public and nonprofit agencies that demonstrate a “commitment to procurement excellence by demonstrating innovation, professionalism, productivity and leadership,” according to an OCTA press release.

“OCTA receiving this award not just once but for nine consecutive years shows the commitment throughout the organization to transparency and accountability,” said OCTA Chairman Tim Shaw, also a La Habra Councilmember. “This is another clear indicator of how OCTA continues to be a strong steward of taxpayer dollars through outstanding work awarding public contracts.”

OCTA is one of only 46 agencies in California and one of only 39 special districts in the United States and Canada to receive the award.

OCTA, which has an annual budget of more than $1.5 billion, contracts for the purchase of a wide range of goods and

services—everything from office supplies to buses, bus parts and consultant services to multi million-dollar construction contracts.

More information about OCTA’s procurement process and a full list of open procurements is available online at cammnet.octa.net.

Local AAUW Branch Empowers Young Women in STEM Fields The San Clemente-Capistrano Bay branch of American Association of University Women (AAUW) invites guests to its September 2019 Breakfast and General Meeting.

The event will take place from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 21, at San Juan Hills Golf Club, 32120 San Juan Creek Road, San Juan Capistrano.

The subject is “Empowering Young Women through Tech Trek.”

In an era in which men remain the majority in Science, Engineering, Technology and Math (STEM) majors and careers, AAUW’s Tech Trek program works to encourage young women to gain knowledge and confidence and enter these fields, according to AAUW’s press release.

This summer, the local AAUW branch sponsored eight seventh-grade girls for a week at UCI. The girls shared a myriad of new experiences. They met other seventhgraders from surrounding areas; joined in get-to-know-you activities; met women with a Ph.D. in their STEM fields; experienced dorm and college life for a week; and participated in hands-on lessons in science, math and engineering.

Attend the September general meeting to hear about how these girls dissected a sheep’s brain, conducted epidemiology

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PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING 6 p.m. The Dana Point Planning Commission will hold a regularly scheduled meeting in Dana Point City Hall, 33282 Golden Lantern, Dana Point.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11

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.

SCIENCE NIGHT 8 p.m. Explore and learn at Science Night events, which are held the second Wednesday each month (except in December). Scientists, naturalists and esteemed experts explore a range of topics regarding natural sciences and our environment. Dana Point Community Center, 34052 Del Obispo Street, Dana Point.

experiments, applied principles of aeronautics, learned study skills and elements of family finance, as well as much more.

To make a reservation, attendees may send checks by Sept. 14 to AAUW SC-SB Branch, P.O. Box 1483 San Clemente, CA, 92674. The cost is $28. Make checks payable to AAUW-SCCB. For more information, visit aauw-ca.org.

Have something interesting for the community? Tell us about awards, events, happenings, accomplishments and more. We’ll put your submissions into “News Bites.”

Send your information to editorial@danapointtimes.com.

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VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

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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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Letters to the Editor

CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Jake Howard, Tim Trent

MIKE POURARYAN, Laguna Niguel

Capistrano Unified School District never ceases to amaze me. In spite of the budget ravages of the last number of years, the district has been able to do wonders in how they have done their utmost to educate children and make a difference in their lives. This is as the district has worked diligently in close consultations with the community to create a vision for the 21st century.

In my capacity as a member of the District’s Facilities and Finance Advisory Committee, I had the opportunity to see a vision of the future in action as I was given a tour of the latest school in the Capistrano Unified School District: Esencia. Nestled in the hills above Rancho Mission Viejo, it is a modern, state-of-theart facility that presents a vision of what is truly possible.

When I arrived at the campus to meet with the chief building official, I was blown away by how modern the building was itself. As the official led me and another member of our committee through the campus, I was amazed at the student-centric and teacher-centric vision that is at the core of 21st century teaching. Whether it was the modular cabinets in the main hall that serves as a library, stage or instructional area or the classrooms underscored by the state-of-the-art in technological resources, it was a vision of what can be truly possible.

Nelson Mandela once reminded us all that “ . . . the true character of society is revealed in how it treats its children,” (Nelson Mandela On Children, 2019).

Escencia is a vision of what can be possible for a community to take care of its children, because they are the future.

WHEN IS GENOCIDE OVER? Dana Point Times, Vol. 12, Issue 36. 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 September 6-12, 2019

open space. The idea to develop the last remaining undeveloped Native site in Orange County with a glamping operation or any other project to generate money, subjecting the Native community to another act of dispossession, is immoral and disgusting. It is an act of erasure of Acjachemen people and culture, and a subtle act of genocide.

Historians and scholars understand American society as “settler colonialism,” where the goal is the acquisition of indigenous lands through the elimination of indigenous peoples. This can occur via the outright killing of indigenous peoples, and this is certainly what characterizes early California history. But it also happens in other ways through a system of never-ending aggression.

California history is finally recognized as a site of overt genocide. Don’t believe it? Even Governor Newsom recently delivered a long-overdue apology for California’s genocide. That was part one of the American-sponsored genocide, but by no means did it end there.

Eighteen treaties made in California but never ratified constitute a history of the theft of seven million acres of land, which was concurrent with systematized indigenous slavery enabled and funded by the federal government. It lasted until the end of the 19th century, long after the African slave trade was abolished by the Fourteenth Amendment in 1865.

The open space near J. Serra Catholic High School is all that is left of Acjachemen people’s beloved village site in San Juan Capistrano. It was bad enough that we had to endure the destruction of the major portion of Putuidem for the building of a school named for the instigator of California’s systematized slavery system. This was a recent genocidal act of erasure that is continued now with the shrinkage of the Putuidem Cultural Park to one small acre. This new assault is intolerable beyond words.

For a change, SJC, do the right thing by indigenous peoples and stick to the plan for a complete cultural park unencumbered by some crass, greed-driven commercial development. This is your last chance to get it right.

DINA GILIO-WHITAKER, professor of American Indian Studies, Cal State San Marcos

THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS: DO THEY REALLY HELP?

REBECCA ROBLES, Acjachemen tribal member

TINA AUCLAIR, San Juan Capistrano

The San Juan Capistrano City Council’s backpedaling on the Putuidem Cultural Park project is troubling for many reasons, and they are all related to California’s unspeakably genocidal history toward American Indians. More to the point is how this history is still constructing the present and manifesting itself in the ugliest of ways in arguments to commercialize what remains of the

“I don’t understand, but I know my God does,” Pastor Frank Pomeroy, First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs, Texas, said the day after 26 church members were murdered, including his daughter.

I don’t understand such tragic loss to that community, either, or any of the other hate-filled episodes of recent headlines. What I do understand is that Page 7

people are hurting. Those that lost family, friends and neighbors are aching with a pain so unimaginable we can only offer our shoulders to cry on, the embrace of our arms and our thoughts and prayers. Are thoughts and prayers enough?

I believe in the power of prayer and have seen amazing things happen because of it, so if you are a prayer warrior, keep it up; or if you would like to know more, please ask me! But what about our thoughts?

How can thoughts help anyone?

Sadly, horrific acts of violence start with a heart that is also hurting. A heart suffering with such agony and torment the actions of that hurt person end up hurting others, sometimes entire communities. The damage can begin by enduring abuse both physical and mental, by being bullied and feeling alone, or something as simple as holding a grudge and allowing it to manifest into hate. There are many of these damaged hearts in our world today—in our country, city, neighborhoods and maybe even in our own families.

So, what separates those of us that have experienced horrific emotional pain in our lives and do not act out from those that do? Could it be as small a thing as having someone in our life that cared enough to speak up or merely paid attention to our anguish? Someone that offered to acknowledge our pain, to console us, advise us or just listen to us? Someone that truly thought about us?

It all starts with a conscious thought to act or react to our neighbor’s pain and need for compassion. Could we make a difference if we tore down the barriers of division, isolation and loneliness in our own communities and replaced them with unity, inclusiveness and love? What would happen in our world if we each asked someone the simple question, “What can I do to help you today?” And then we really listened.

If we each took the slightest step toward each other, allowed others into our circle of trust and truly thought about each other’s needs, the results would be miraculous, and our thoughts and prayers for comfort, peace and a kinder world would already be answered.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY Have something you’d like to say? Email your letter to lboyd@picketfencemedia.com no later than 8 a.m. on Monday morning.

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

EDITOR’S PICK

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 | 06 9TH ANNUAL GETZLAF GOLF SHOOTOUT The 9th annual Getzlaf Golf Shootout— hosted by Ryan Getzlaf, captain of the NHL’s Anaheim Ducks—is a two-day charity golf event that brings together athletes, celebrities and community leaders, all teaming up in support of CureDuchenne.

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is a genetic disorder characterized by progressive muscle degeneration and weakness. The Shootout kicks off with the MVP Party at Time Nightclub in Costa Mesa on Friday night. Then, on Saturday morning, the golf tournament will be held at Monarch Beach Golf Links in Dana Point. For more information and a schedule, visit cureduchenne.org. Monarch Beach Resort, One Monarch Beach Resort, Dana Point.

CASA JAZZ CLUB: NASHEET WAITS 7-9 p.m. JazzTimes calls Nasheet Waits’ performances “the most exciting rhythm section in jazz.” As the son of legendary percussionist Frederick Waits, who set the rhythms that made Ella Fitzgerald swing, Nasheet Waits is the torchbearer of today’s most energetic, sophisticated jazz rhythms. Waits kicks off the third annual Casa Jazz Club with fellow performers Eric Revis (bass) and Bennie Maupin (reeds and saxophone) for a concert in Casa Romantica’s Main Salon. Enjoy appetizers and a sunset cocktail reception on the Ocean Terrace before the show. Cost is $50-$55. Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente. 949.498.2139. CasaRomantica.org.

OC PARKS SUNSET CINEMA: ‘LILO & STITCH’ 6-10 p.m. The County of Orange and OC Parks present the annual Sunset Cinema film series, featuring 14 free movies at parks throughout Orange County, including Bluff Park at Salt Creek Beach. Sunset Cinema will screen recent favorite and popular classic films on Friday evenings through September 13 around sunset. Lilo Dana Point Times September 6-12, 2019

Photo: File

FRIDAY, SATURDAY & SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6-8: TALL SHIPS & OCEAN FESTIVAL 2019 The Tall Ships Festival started in 1984 and is the Ocean Institute’s premier annual event, drawing thousands to Dana Point’s beautiful harbor. The 35th annual festival takes place all weekend—from Friday, Sept. 6 through Sunday, Sept. 8—and celebrates California’s rich maritime history and our connection to the ocean. Equally important, the festival highlights the community’s rich cultural heritage as chronicled in Richard Henry Dana’s classic American novel, Two Years Before the Mast, when the Pilgrims explored and traded along the coastline in the early days while California was still owned by Mexico. Festival times: 4:30-8:30 p.m. Friday; Saturday and Sunday: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Daily tickets are $15 for adults; $12.50 for kids; free for children under 2. Family 4-Pack: $50. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. 949.496.2274. For details, visit OceanInstitute.org.

& Stitch will be showing at Bluff Park on Sept. 7. Pack a picnic, blankets and beach chairs. All movies are free to attend, with free parking beginning at 6 p.m. and show time beginning at 8 p.m. Moviegoers 21-and-older can purchase beer and wine at the beer tent, and food trucks will be serving onsite. 33333 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point. ocparks.com.

Saturday | 07 LIVE MUSIC HARBOR CRUISE 8-9:30 p.m. Experience live music from the deck of the Dana Pride every Saturday night as it cruises through beautiful Dana Point Harbor. Enjoy a complimentary glass of Dana Pride’s special

Pride Punch. Full cash bar available; 21-and-older event. $28 per person. For tickets, call 888-224-0603 or book online at DanaWharf.com 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point.

Fest, featuring center-wide activities and entertainment including a Unicorn Meet & Greet, princesses and fairies, a Rainbow Dance Party, a Unicorn Pop-up Shop by Daisy Shoppe, inflatable fun and more.

JR’S DEFENSIVE TACTICS WORKSHOP 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. In this workshop, kids aged 7 to 12 will learn escape and evasion tactics in a safe space with proper safety equipment to allow them to strike a live target with all of their might. Zen Dojos Martial Arts Academy, 31888 Del Obispo, #C6, San Juan Capistrano. 949.240.6574.

ZenDojos.com.

CASA JAZZ CLUB: RAVI COLTRANE 7-9 p.m. Ravi Coltrane is a Grammynominated saxophonist, bandleader and composer. The son of jazz legends John Coltrane and Alice Coltrane, Ravi performs with a rich, smooth style influenced by a lifetime of diverse musical mentors.

Enjoy appetizers and a sunset cocktail reception on the Ocean Terrace, then head to the Main Salon for a performance by the Ravi Coltrane Quartet. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. Cost is $70-$75. Casa Romantica (Cont. on page 10)

UNICORN FEST 1-5 p.m. Experience a magical afternoon at Outlets at San Clemente’s first Unicorn Page 8

danapointtimes.com

GETTING OUT (Cont. from page 8) Cultural Center and Gardens. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente. 949.498.2139.

CasaRomantica.org.

At the Movies: ‘Brittany Runs a Marathon’ Is a Winner

Sunday | 08 BRUNCH AT RAYA 11 a.m.-2 p.m. A tempting brunch with flowing champagne awaits guests every Sunday morning in RAYA at The RitzCarlton, 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.

OPEN MIC NIGHT 6-9 p.m. Five Vines Wine Bar presents its Open Mic Night every Thursday. Five Vines is looking for musicians, comedians, poets—anyone who wants a mic and an audience. Must be 21 and older. 31761 Camino Capistrano, #11, San Juan Capistrano. 949.800.9145. fivevineswinebar.com.

Monday | 09 PAINT YOUR PET 6:30-9:30 p.m. Come to Brio Tuscany Grill and create your own “Pet Portrait.”

Upload your pet photo, Painting & Vino Orange County will enlarge it, print it and show you the process on how to paint your pet. You can paint it with a colorful pop-art style or create a pet portrait. You choose the style and colors. The best image for the portrait: It needs to be an upclose, clear, low-shadow pet picture. Only one pet per painting. You’ll be painting on 11”x14”or 12”x12” canvas, depending on the best layout of your image. Reserve your spot at paintingandvino.com. Brio Tuscany Grille, 24050 Camino Del Avion, Dana Point. 949.443.1476.

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.

20TH BOYS & GIRLS CLUB GOLF TOURNAMENT 9 a.m -6 p.m. Play in the 20th annual Golf Tournament to support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley. Your support will enable youth to reach their full potential as productive, responsible, and caring citizens. Registration opens at 9 a.m. and will be followed by a putting contest at 11:45 a.m. The shotgun start is scheduled for noon. The event will conclude with a silent auction and dinner and awards ceremony. Tourney fee for a round of 18 holes, lunch and dinner is $350. The cost to attend the dinner only is $50. El Niguel Country Club, 23700 Club House Drive, Laguna Niguel. lj@bgccapo.com or visit, Bgccapo.com.

INTRODUCTION TO BRIDGE 9:30-11:30 a.m. The South Orange County Bridge Center will host a special introDana Point Times September 6-12, 2019

The Big One National Film Tour. From sub-zero temperatures in Central Idaho to 80-degree days in Southern California, these four humanity-focused films feature stories such as an avalanche rescue dog (and her human), pro surfers, rock climbers, and tough mothers. The screening will premiere at Hobie Surf Shop. There will be food, drinks, and fun with proceeds benefiting local charities. Hobie Surf Shop, 34174 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point. 949.496.2366. hobiesurfshop.com.

Friday | 13 Photo: Anna Kooris / Amazon Studios

BY MEGAN BIANCO, DANA POINT TIMES

T

hough there have always been overweight characters played by overweight actors, stars such as Robert De Niro and Christian Bale have infamously gone to extreme method-acting limits to naturally gain and lose weight for roles. This late summer, comedic actress Jillian Bell takes a stab at it herself in Paul Downs Colaizzo’s Brittany Runs a Marathon.

After a bad night out with friends, Brittany (Bell) goes to the doctor not feeling well—only for him to tell her that her primary problem is she’s out of shape, on the verge of being overweight, and needs to stop eating junk food and getting wasted every week to feel better. Brittany tosses the advice aside at first, until it hits her that this new health goal could work as both physical motivation and a personal one

ductory session so you can learn what bridge is all about. Afterward, you can sign up for the weekly series that runs every Monday from Sept. 16 to Oct. 14.

South Orange County Bridge Center, 31251 Rancho Viejo Road, Suite 205, San Juan Capistrano, 949.248.1268. janedober@gmail.com. socb.center.

Wednesday | 11 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. 555 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.361.2855. Check their website for the latest scheduled perfor-

to surround herself with more positive influences. Not only does she take up jogging, she goes the limit to have the New York City Marathon be her final goal.

Bell reportedly lost 40 pounds throughout filming, just like Brittany.

And if you watch the movie, both the actress’ and character’s progress are impressive. Brittany Runs a Marathon does a pretty decent job of showing that she has both different and similar issues as in-shape people do. Bell does a fine job with the drama and comic relief that is required of the film’s lead.

Brittany is also the filmmaking debut of Colaizzo, and he has potential for future features in cinema. But besides that, Brittany is probably the best romcom/light comedy since Bridget Jones’ Diary (2001) about an average-looking, out-of-shape woman. DP

mances. ivalees.com.

Thursday | 12 2019 FOLLOW THE LIGHT AWARDS CEREMONY 5:30-8 p.m. The Follow the Light Foundation will award some of the world’s best surf photographers at this inaugural ceremony. The foundation was created in honor of Larry “Flame” Moore’s legacy, for his mentorship to aspiring surf photographers. Tickets are available at SHAAC.org. Ocean Institute, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point.

949.496.2274. OceanInstitute.org.

SEARCH FOR THE BIG ONE TOUR 6-9 p.m. You’re invited to the Search For Page 10

OC PARKS SUNSET CINEMA: ‘THE ENDLESS SUMMER’ 6-10 p.m. The County of Orange and OC Parks present the annual Sunset Cinema film series, featuring 14 free movies at parks throughout Orange County, including Bluff Park at Salt Creek Beach. Sunset Cinema will screen recent favorite and popular classic films on Friday evenings through September 13 around sunset.

The Endless Summer will be showing at Bluff Park on Sept. 13. Pack a picnic, blankets and beach chairs. All movies are free to attend, with free parking beginning at 6 p.m. and show time beginning at 8 p.m. Moviegoers 21-and-older can purchase beer and wine at the beer tent, and food trucks will be serving onsite.

33333 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point. ocparks.com.

18TH ANNUAL GOLF CLASSIC 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Come out for a day of golf, prizes, and entertainment while helping the Child Abuse Prevention Center reach its fundraising goals. The funds raised by the 18th Annual Golf Classic will help finance essential programs and resources for tens of thousands of at-risk children, families, and adults in Orange County.

For questions regarding the event, contact the Child Abuse Prevention Center at 714.955.6526 or email events@ brightfutures4kids.org. Monarch Beach Golf Links, 50 Monarch Beach Resort N, Dana Point.

FLASHBACK HEART ATTACK LIVE! 8 p.m.-midnight. Come out for a night of live 80s music, dancing, drinks and food.

Table reservations are available and early arrival is recommended. The band Flashback Heart Attack will be performing the best hits of the 80s. StillWater Spirits & Sounds, 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point.

949.661.6003. danapointtimes.com

DP

Dana Point

DP LIVING

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

GUEST OPINION: Wellness and Prevention by Susan Parmelee

Do You Know About Wellness & Prevention Center Mental Health Services?

L

ast month, I had the opportunity to introduce you to our Drug Free Communities Wellness & Prevention Coalition leadership team and the important work that the Wellness & Prevention Center does to lower substance use among our youth. This month, I would like to let you know more about our mental health services. Since 2014, the Wellness & Prevention Center has been providing mental health services in local secondary schools. Two years ago, we also introduced afternoon and evening mental health services that are open to all community members.

WELLNESS AND The overarching goal PREVENTION of our mental health

By Susan Parmelee services is to increase access to mental health services for both public and privately insured individuals.

We use two main strategies to achieve this goal: education designed to lower the stigma surrounding the diseases of mental health and providing services on school sites and community sites that are easy to access with no insurance restrictions.

Wellness & Prevention Center staff

provide education about raising healthy teens through social media and bi-monthly emails. We hold live education events in the classroom and in the evenings that help youth and their families understand the difference between normal teen behavior and symptoms that may be of concern. We help families connect to supportive services in the community and through their health insurance.

The majority of teens’ social emotional learning takes place at school, where youth spend the majority of their day. Our school-based offices at middle and high schools are a safe place for youth to stop in to discuss their stressors and work out positive solutions. Many families are made up of two working parents who may find it difficult to bring their teen to therapy due to hectic schedules, so we step in and schedule sessions for their child at their school.

The Wellness & Prevention Center’s partnership with Capistrano Unified School District now benefits all of the secondary schools in San Clemente, as well as San Juan Hills High School. And this year, we are pleased to announce that we are adding services at the two middle schools in Aliso Viejo. Through generous support of local donors, health care foundations, and business and family foundations, the Wellness & Prevention Center is a model for using publicprivate partnerships to ensure healthy futures.

I hope you are now wondering, “What can I do to help?” The Wellness & Prevention Center relies heavily on the support of private donors and in-kind donations in order to provide accessible mental health services.

Photo: Courtesy of OC Public Libraries

FROM THE ARCHIVES This photo was taken of fishing barge Dixie sometime between 1946 and 1962. The barge beached itself in Dana Point, but it sustained no damage because it was built to come into the surf.

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.

entertainments. Buy tickets here: bit.ly/impactwpc.

• Make a donation to support our work: wpc-oc.org.

• Attend our Saturday, October 12 community education event: Together4Teens at Capistrano Valley High School. This event is for ages 12 to adult and is a free event. Reserve your seat today at together4teens.eventbrite.com.

Susan Parmelee is a mental health social worker and one of the founders of the Wellness & Prevention Center, San Clemente. She can be reached at susan@wellnessandpreventionsanclemente.com. DP

PLEASE CONSIDER THESE OPTIONS: • Attend our annual benefit on September 28, from 5:30-9 p.m., at a private beachfront home. Dinner and drinks, as well as fabulous silent auction items and

• Buy an Outlets at San Clemente Shopping Extravaganza ticket and select the Wellness & Prevention Center as the charity you support: outletsatsanclemente.com/tickets/.

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

Adoptable Pet of the Week: Figgy

Sudoku

• Sign up for our bi-monthly email. It keeps you current on community activities and events, as well as provides educational materials: wpc-oc.org.

BY MYLES MELLOR

DANA POINT TIMES

T Figgy. Photo: Courtesy of San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter Dana Point Times September 6-12, 2019

Last week’s solution:

hree-year-old Figgy is what you’d call a gentle soul. She has a sweet personality and enjoys being brushed and petted. Figgy prefers a quiet lifestyle and would make an ideal lap cap for someone looking for a good-natured feline friend.

If you would like to know more about Figgy, call the San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter at 949.492.1617 or visit with her 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 12

See the solution in next week’s issue.

danapointtimes.com

DP LIVING

Dana Point Woman in Hospice Meets ‘5 Seconds of Summer’

BY ZARA FLORES, FOR DANA POINT TIMES

K

elsey Blackham, a young local woman in hospice for Stage 3 Hodgkin Lymphoma, was recently given the opportunity to meet one of her favorite bands, “5 Seconds of Summer.”

Blackham was diagnosed when she was 19 years old and was in remission for a month about six months after the initial diagnosis. Since then, it’s been a roller coaster of remission and relapse, she said.

Now, she’s living her days of hospice in comfort with her grandparents in Dana Point, where she’s lived since she was 13.

Blackham has always loved 5 Seconds of Summer and held onto their music when she was at her lowest and weakest point, connecting to their music and holding their lyrics near to her heart.

It was her ultimate dream to meet them.

Michelle Wulfestieg, Executive Director of Southern California Hospice Foundation, was able to make it come true through SCHF’s Angel Assistance Program.

The Angel Assistance Program provides support and assistance to enhance the wellbeing of patients nearing end-of-life, from providing transportation to granting final wishes.

“All (services) are equally important, and all speak to the compassion and dignity we seek to provide,” said Wulfestieg.

On Wednesday, August 7, the band invited Kelsey, her sister, and two friends to

Kelsey Blackham, of Dana Point, was diagnosed with Stage 3 Hodgkin Lymphoma. She was able to meet the members of “5 Seconds of Summer,” the band she says helped her get through hard times. Photo: Courtesy of Echo Media Group

their recording studio in Los Angeles for an exclusive rehearsal and private meet-andgreet. The girls got a sneak peek into their upcoming sets on for the United States leg of their world tour, as well as requesting songs for them to play.

“It was so surreal,” said Blackham. “It didn’t feel like it was happening, even though it was. They made me feel so comfortable, and they made me feel like I could be myself.”

5 Seconds of Summer provided all of

Kelsey’s favorite food and snacks and the meet-and-greet, with the help of Wulfestieg, shared words of hope and encouragement, and signed merchandise and specialty items, including a Gibson guitar that was used during their rehearsal.

“I have witnessed what a strong connection she has to 5 Seconds of Summer. Their music reached her in a way that nobody else could,” Kelsey’s sister, Brittany, said.

“During some of those really challenging times in her early 20s, when she felt no one

could relate, when all her friends were off to college and dating boys, she was spending the majority of her time in the hospital receiving treatments; I’m grateful knowing there was an outlet for her to connect with.”

Blackham asked the band to write out her favorite lyric from their music—“It’s Gonna Get Better”—to remember the day.

“I have that quote they wrote hanging on my wall now. I do see it every day, and I do hope it’ll get better. It helps give me a positive outlook on life,” she said. DP

PUBLIC NOTICES TO ADVERTISE: 949.388.7700, EXT. 100 • LEGALS@PICKETFENCEMEDIA.COM PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20196552139 The following person(s) is doing business as: THE ABSTRACT HEART 26400 CAMINO DE VISTA, F SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, CA 92675 Full Name of Registrant(s): TERESA OWENS

26400 CAMINO DE VISTA, F SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, CA 92675 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/TERESA OWENS This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County On 08/15/2019 Publish: Dana Point Times AUGUST 30, SEPTEMBER 6, 13, 20, 2019

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.

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COFFEE SHOP

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ICE CREAM

Coffee Importers Scoop Deck

34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, www.coffeeimporters.com

INSURANCE SERVICES

Patricia Powers

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

CLASSIFIEDS Submit your classified ad online at danapointtimes.com GARAGE SALES MULTI-FAMILY GARAGE SALE – DANA POINT SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7TH 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. High Quality & Variety. Neighborhood Sale in Sea Ridge, Dana Point. Just a few blocks up from the Harbor. From Golden Lantern – Turn West on Meridian into the Sea Ridge Community. We’ll be at the end of the cul-de-sac. Tools, Tool Storage, POV Camera, iPhones, Automotive, Off-Road Equip, Sporting Goods, Men & Women’s Designer Clothing, Artwork & Glass Art, Lighting, TiKi Collectibles, Artisan Jewelry, and so much more.

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

HELP WANTED INSIDE SALES Joe Verde Sales and Management Training, Inc. Inside Sales – Local company 30 years in business. The average salesperson made $190,061 in 2018. Email your resume to employment@ joeverde.com.

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

Yeungs Violin Studio

949.388.4038, heilingyeung@hotmail.com www.yeungsschoolofviolin.com/violinestudio

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.

OBITUARY

Richard Michael Rowland Richard Michael Rowland, age 66, of San Clemente, passed away on Sunday, August 11th, 2019. Richard is survived by his mother, father, three sisters and their children, two brothers, countless friends and waves and trees.

Richard was a wonderfully gifted Arborist and having possessed a deep love for surfing and the ocean, could frequently be found at Trail 1, San Onofre. Sharp of mind, he also loved reading which spurred many interesting and lively conversations with loved ones and friends.

Richard’s brilliant sense of humor was a source of great delight to all those who knew him. He was also an avid fan and connoisseur of many genres of music, always happy to share his finds with friends and family. Above all, Richard was an unfailingly kind and generous soul. He will always be remembered as a beacon of light in this sometimes chaotic world.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to all the staff at Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo, for their unwavering attentiveness and loving care.

SUBMIT YOUR CLASSIFIED AD ONLINE AT DANAPOINTTIMES.COM

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BUSINESS DIRECTORY

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE 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

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Dana Point Times September 6-12, 2019

Page 15

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DP SPORTS & OUTDOORS Dana Point

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

2019 Dolphin Fall Sports Preview Dana Hills Teams Strive to Reclaim League Titles, Adjust to Change

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, DANA POINT TIMES

T

he 2019 fall high school sports season is underway, with every team returning to action as of last week.

In our annual season preview, we get you caught up on how the Dolphins have fared early on and their outlook for the rest of the season.

For in-game updates, scores, news and more for all of the Dana Hills High School teams, follow us on Twitter @SouthOCsports and like our brand new Facebook page South OC Sports.

GIRLS | VOLLEYBALL

The Dana Hills girls volleyball team is set up for a new era.

Tom Hoff takes over the helm for the Dolphins after Gus Culver took over the same position at El Toro High School, where he was already a teacher.

It’s an easy transition for the Dolphins, as Hoff was already volunteering with the Dana Hills program as an assistant last season. Hoff also brings a wealth of experience. Hoff played in three Olympics for the United States (2000, 2004 and 2008) and was the captain of the 2008 gold medal team in Beijing.

Dana Hills was an extremely strong group last year with some mega talents, but the season met a rough end for the Dolphins in an upset sweep loss to San Clemente in the CIF-SS Division 2 quarterfinals, followed by a sweep loss in the first round of the state playoffs to Bishop’s of La Jolla.

The Dolphins are led by a strong senior class, and Hoff is happy with what he’s seen in just four weeks of practice.

“We do a couple things extremely well that seem to make a lot of problems for teams,” Hoff said. “We serve the ball really well. We serve at a high efficiency with a lot of aces. We keep a tremendous amount of pressure on teams that way. We pass the ball and have good ball control.”

The top returner for Dana Hills is senior Hunter Reidl. The Dolphins also will get big contributions from Maura Hayes and Avery Allemann, who were both named to the all-tournament team at the seasonopening Tesoro Tournament.

Early on in the season, Dana Hills is 2-3 overall, but the Dolphins are achieving the goals set by Hoff.

Dana Point Times September 6-12, 2019

Dana Hills girls volleyball will have a new coach at the helm, but the Dolphins will be led by their seniors looking to reclaim the South Coast League and avenge playoff losses. Photo: Zach Cavanagh

“What we’ve talked about is always giving ourselves the opportunity to win the tournament on the last day—be podium finishers,” Hoff said. “We’ve done that.

Every tournament, we’ve had the opportunity to go to the championship or we’ve lost in the championship.”

Dana Hills is in the midst of a run against Laguna Beach. The Dolphins met the Breakers in the final of the Tesoro Tournament, where Laguna Beach was victorious in three sets. Dana Hills then traveled to Laguna Beach for a nonleague match on Aug. 21, where the Breakers again prevailed in a five-set thriller. The Dolphins next will open the Dave Mohs Tournament at Edison High School against Laguna Beach on Friday, Sept. 6.

Dana Hills opens South Coast League play against Aliso Niguel at home on Sept. 17 and plays at league champion San Juan Hills on Sept. 26. San Juan Hills has won four straight league titles and won 27 consecutive league matches. Hoff says the Stallions are on that pedestal again until someone knocks them off.

Early results have the Dolphins be-

lieving they can compete for their first league title since 2016’s Sea View League championship and their first South Coast League title since 2013.

“The girls have shown themselves that if they put their mind to it with focus,” Hoff said, “they can contend to win.”

The Dolphins will also honor former coach Oz Simmons this season. Simmons died on Sunday, Sept. 1 after a fight with cancer. Simmons coached the boys volleyball team from 1983 to 2018 and won a CIF-SS title in 1986. Simmons also coached the girls volleyball team for two decades. Look for more coverage on Simmons in next week’s issue.

GIRLS | GOLF

Last season, the Dana Hills girls golf team was packed with seniors, but a 12th-place finish at the CIF-SS Divisional Championships left the Dolphins disappointed.

Going into 2019, there’s a youth movement afoot at Dana Hills as it starts things completely fresh for a Dolphin program looking to recapture championship glory.

Page 16

Dana Hills does return one player for her senior season, Lauren Wahlstrom, who was the team’s low scorer from that CIF-SS Divisional round. Wahlstrom is just one of two upperclassmen on a roster packed with freshmen and sophomores.

Gianna Comoglio is a returning junior who was also in the playoff top six for Dana Hills.

Early in the season, Wahlstrom continues to be the top player for the Dolphins, posting their lowest nine-hole index at 3.1 and coming off a round of 34 against Mira Costa at El Niguel Country Club on Tuesday, Sept. 3.

Wahlstrom is backed up by two freshmen in Sydnie Duvall and Zoie Fuentes, who are the only other two Dolphins with nine-hole indexes under 10. Duvall has three sub-40 rounds in seven played this season, and both Duval and Fuentes shot 43 in the Mira Costa match.

Dana Hills returns to its traditional home course of El Niguel Country Club this season. The Dolphins played 2018 at the Monarch Beach Links. El Niguel is a par-72, 18-hole championship course. danapointtimes.com

SPORTS & OUTDOORS build from within and are still set for 2019.

Senior Carrick Denker will be this season’s pacesetter for Dana Hills. Denker finished 21st at the state meet last season. Junior Brandon Pizano, who finished 31st at state, also returns.

Juniors Gianni Viola and Ryan Broadhead and senior Omar Garcia will also step up for the Dolphins.

Dunn said that El Toro will be a tough challenge in league, even believing they’d be favored ahead of Dana Hills. Dunn also believes that the Dolphins are ready to step up to the line with anybody.

GIRLS | CROSS COUNTRY

Dana Hills boys water polo advanced to the program’s third CIF-SS semifinal last season, and despite offensive losses, the Dolphins will challenge again with a strong defense. Photo: Zach Cavanagh

Dana Hills opens league on Oct. 18 and 19 against Trabuco Hills. The Dolphins play league rival San Clemente on Oct. 9 and 10 and Aliso Niguel on Oct. 15 and 17.

South Coast League Finals begin Oct. 21.

BOYS | WATER POLO

The Dana Hills boys water polo team has a lot to come back from.

The Dolphins posted one of the best seasons in school history last year, but Dana Hills was left with nothing to show for it.

Dana Hills won 20 games and finished second in the South Coast League again, largely due to two one-goal losses to rival San Clemente. The Dolphins then advanced to the program’s third semifinal appearance as the No. 2 seed in the Division 2 playoffs, but Dana Hills dropped a one-goal lead in the fourth quarter to Mira Costa and lost by two goals. The Dolphins have made only one CIF-SS final in school history.

Dana Hills lost impact players to graduation, but others remain to keep the Dolphins in contention.

The major returner is in the cage with senior Justin Edward. Edward was the backbone of the Dana Hills defensive efforts that kept the Dolphins in games and helped them record two one-goal wins in the playoffs. Edward also had a strong summer with the Orange County Water Polo Club to lead them to the Junior Olympics.

The Dolphins were listed on the CIF-SS Division 1 & 2 preseason watch list. The top eight teams on the list will make up the Division 1 playoff field at the end of the season. San Clemente was also on the list.

Dana Hills is 1-2 on the early season, with a home win over Righetti of Santa Maria and road losses to Woodbridge and Dana Point Times September 6-12, 2019

Foothill. The Dolphins play at Santa Margarita on Sept. 12.

The South Coast League has tough teams in every game, but it should come down to Dana Hills and San Clemente, as usual.

The Dolphins host round one on Sept.

17 at 3:15 p.m., and the Tritons host round two on Oct. 17 at 3:15 p.m. If you’re a fan of water polo or simply competition in general, mark those games on your calendars.

They might just be the best rivalry games in any sport in South Orange County.

BOYS | CROSS COUNTRY

The Dana Hills boys cross country program is simply a machine.

The Dolphins are always in contention and always reloading, but they build from within and maintain their consistent level

of success. Expectations remain the same year after year, and the Dolphins usually meet them.

Dana Hills finished second in CIF-SS Division 1 and third in the state in Division 1 last season, but change has hit the Dolphins.

With a dip in school enrollment, Dana Hills drops down to Division 2 for the first time in a while.

“We’d love to stay in Division 1 forever,” Dana Hills coach Craig Dunn said, “but Division 2 is loaded, with Newbury Park, Claremont and Loyola. We’ll have our hands full there, but if we continue to put in the work and stay healthy, we can run with almost anyone.”

Dana Hills loses three seniors from its scoring five last season, including its pacesetter, but as mentioned, the Dolphins

The Dana Hills cross country teams drop down to Division 2 this season, but the boys will still be in contention at the top. Photo: Zach Cavanagh Page 17

The Dana Hills girls cross country team still has some building to do.

The Dolphins finished third in the South Coast League for a second straight season, but the Dolphins didn’t make it to the state meet, as they did the year before. Dana Hills finished 15th at the CIF-SS Division 1 Finals.

Also dropping to Division 2, like the boys, the girls team will bring back a couple of experienced runners.

Senior Marisa Gaitan is the top returner for the Dolphins. She finished 33rd at the CIF-SS Finals.

Dana Hills hosts the 46th edition of the Dana Hills Invitational on Sept. 28.

Orange County Championships are Oct. 19, and South Coast League Finals are Nov. 6.

GIRLS | TENNIS

The Dolphins are in a world of change after a spectacular 2018 season.

Dana Hills girls tennis advanced to the program’s 12th CIF-SS Final but could not capture its second title. The Dolphins also graduated all of their top players from that team that won the program’s 28th consecutive league title.

On top of the graduation losses, Dana Hills also has a new coach, John Cost.

Cost comes to the Dolphins from the Sunset Hills Country Club in Thousand Oaks. It’s also Cost’s first full season as a high school head coach, and Cost understands it will be a building process.

“We’re a young, young team,” Cost said. “We only have two seniors, and as we get into the bulk of the season, they’re starting to get the hang of what I’m trying to advise them, to be a little more competitive and not error-prone.”

The Dolphins’ No. 1 singles player is a returner in Gigi Banducci. Dana Hills will be led on the doubles side by the pair of Caroline Allemann and Aidan Rice.

Dana Hills has split the last five league championships with San Clemente, and continuing its league title streak will be a tougher task this season with challenges from the Tritons and a rising Aliso Niguel.

Dana Hills hosts San Clemente on Sept.

24 and plays at San Clemente on Oct. 10. DP danapointtimes.com

DP DP SURF Dana Point

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

Following the Light Celebrating the next generation of surf photographers, the 2019 Follow The Light Awards are coming to the Ocean Institute in Dana Point next week

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

N

obody put Salt Creek on the map like Larry “Flame” Moore. Turning the close-out barrels at Gravels into his own personal photo studio during his 30 years at the helm of the Surfing Magazine photo department, Moore transformed the Dana Point surf spot from South Orange County backwater to worldrenowned destination. His tack-sharp, perfectly lit photos were plastered on the covers of the magazines and featured in all of their full-spread glory on the pages.

Throughout the 1980s and ’90s, “Flame” provided the guiding light for radical, progressive, modern surfing. After Flame succumbed to cancer in October 2005, the Follow The Light surf photography grant program was established in 2006 in his honor. Providing aspiring documentarians and artists with a platform to be discovered and earn some start-up cash, Follow The Light grants helped launch the careers of modern luminaries such as Chris Burkard, Todd Glaser and Morgan Maassen.

After 10 years, the program took a brief hiatus, but this year Follow The Light was

The Follow The Light Awards will take place on Thursday, Sept. 12 at the Ocean Institute in Dana Point. Tickets are now available at SHACC.org. Photo: Nolan Sullivan

relaunched by the Surfing Heritage and Culture Center in San Clemente. Working with Moore’s family, it was an opportunity to reaffirm the commitment and continue to support the surf photographers of tomorrow.

“As the first winner of the Follow the Light Award, I can tell you that it had a profound impact on my career,” Burkard said. “I’m so pleased that FTL is back, and I know it will continue to be a game-changer for all of our participants.”

The return of Follow The Light was announced before the summer, and submissions poured in from around the world.

By the time the final deadline had passed, nearly 100 submissions from aspiring surf photographers had come in. The quality of

GROM OF THE WEEK

IAN MCKERNAN

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

S

ummer’s not over until we say it is, and keeping the vibe alive is San Clemente’s Ian McKernan, who was just named the San Clemente Junior Lifeguard of the Year.

A four-year veteran of the esteemed junior lifeguard program, McKernan, who recently turned 15 years old, has risen to the rank of cadet and just wrapped up another outstanding season on the sand and in the water. Bringing a positive attitude to the beach every day, he spent this summer assisting the junior lifeguards’ daily operations. He also got to spend some time in the lifeguard towers gaining expe-

Dana Point Times September 6-12, 2019

From left to right in the photo: Rod Mellot, Bob Elwell, Steve Watts, Ian McKernan, Ian Burton, Nicolas Giugni, Nick Scheel, Sean Staudenbaur and William Blackwill. Photo: Courtesy of SC Junior Lifeguards

rience and developing his lifeguard skills.

“He is a great role model for the younger junior guards,” said San Clemente Marine Safety Officer Nick Giugni. “When given instruction, he comprehends quickly and

the works and passion exhibited by the young shooters was everything Moore would have dreamed of.

“When we announced in February that Follow The Light was returning, we really didn’t know what to expect” said Don Meek, FTL committee chair at SHACC. “When the submission window closed on May 31, we were absolutely blown away by what had been turned in. There’s a lot of incredible talent out there.”

Limited to photographers under the age of 25, the top five finalists have been announced. They include Shane Grace from Haleiwa, Hawaii; Nick Green from Hobart, Tasmania; Ryan Mack from Brick Township, New Jersey; and Santa Barbara-area photographers Paul Greene

effectively completes assignments. When in the water, he displays confidence and the ability to handle rough conditions.”

With school back in session, these days you can find Ian at San Clemente High School, where he’s a distinguished member of the swim and water polo teams.

A constant tinkerer and talented computer scientist, he also has a passion for electronics and robotics. But that’s not all; for the past three years, he’s participated in the Pageant of the Masters in Laguna Beach.

His mom describes him as a “kid who is never bored, always likes to learn about something new.”

That sounds about right. Congrats, Ian, on your Junior Lifeguard of the Year award and thank you for making our beaches a safer place. DP

Page 18

and Nolan Sullivan.

“Photography is so diverse and always changing; if you are sick of shooting one thing or a certain way, then you can mix it up to keep it fresh,” said Green, who’s making the trip from Tasmania all the way to Dana Point exclusively for the Follow The Light Awards. “Photography has also led me to the most amazing experiences, introduced me to the greatest people and allowed me to travel; it’s fueled the lifestyle I seek, as well as been a creative outlet for me to pursue.”

When the planning process for the 2019 Follow The Light Awards began, a number of influential surf industry players got together and decided it was important not just to offer a cash prize to the winners, but also working opportunities to help potentially launch their careers. The response from the sector was impressive.

Vans stepped up and will be offering an opportunity to shoot the upcoming Triple Crown of Surfing on the North Shore of Oahu. The World Surf League offered the chance to shoot the Freshwater Pro at the Surf Ranch in Lemoore, California later this month. And Billabong will be using one of the finalists on an upcoming campaign shoot. All of these experiences should provide the recipients with invaluable experiences and the opportunity to build and foster relationships that could help get their careers off the ground.

“The industry support has been so incredible, and we’re so thankful,” said Glenn Brumage, the Executive Director at SHACC. “It really illustrates how important surf photography still is to the culture and lifestyle. Images inspire us to go chase perfect days, ride bigger waves and live that surf life. It’s important to recognize and celebrate that, and it’s an honor to be able to do it in Flame’s memory.”

The Follow The Light Awards will take place on September 12 at the Ocean Institute in Dana Point. Tickets are now available at SHACC.org. DP

SURF FORECAST Water Temperature: 71-73 Degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: 10-15 Outlook: The tropical swell holds for Friday, then eases through the weekend. Fresh SW swell gradually fills in on Sunday, setting up waist-stomach-chest high surf by the afternoon. Light winds for the mornings, followed by light+ to moderate west flow Saturday afternoon, and southerly winds Sunday afternoon. More SSW swell is scheduled for next week. For the latest details be sure to visit Surfline.com.

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