January 1, 2021

LO C A L

N EWS

January 1-7, 2021

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12 Moments in Surf That Made 2020 PAGE 10

VOLUME 14, ISSUE 1

Looking Ahead Mayor Federico Previews Plans for City’s Economic Recovery in 2021 E Y E O N D P/ PAG E 3

Dana Point Mayor Jamey Federico anticipates several milestones in the new year, including potential updates to the city’s General Plan, developments in the proposed Doheny Village plan and major decision-making for economic recovery. Photo: Lillian Boyd

Southern California Remains Under Stay-at-Home Order EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

Cox Charities Accepting Scholarship Applications EYE ON DP/PAGE 4

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Editor’s Pick: Harbor Geology Hike GETTING OUT/PAGE 6

Dana Point Times January 1-7, 2021

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Dana Dana Point Point

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

Five things Dana Point should know this week

Mayor Federico Previews Plans for City’s Economic Recovery in 2021 THE LATEST: In 2019, then-City Manager Mark Denny declared homelessness as the issue of focus for the year for Dana Point—a statement that was reinforced by survey results administered to residents.

In 2020, the health and economic threat of COVID-19 declared itself to be the issue of focus for the year.

In 2021, Mayor Jamey Federico says the issue of focus will be economic recovery.

“It’s important to plan ahead for unforeseen events,” Federico said. “There are certain policies in place that help us weather the storm so that when it came time to address the fiscal impact, many of the questions of how we’d address them were already in our policies.”

As California undergoes its first phase of vaccine distribution, Federico says in his conversations with residents that many are eager for circumstances to return to normal.

“Most people are concerned about moving on from COVID and managing the fiscal impacts, which is something the city is very focused on,” Federico said.

In April, current City Manager Mike Killebrew provided a chilling forecast to city council that the financial impacts of COVID-19 on the second calendar quarter of 2020 would be devastating. In August, Killebrew reported that Fiscal Year 2021 would likely see a hit of more than $7 million.

The transient occupancy tax (TOT), the city’s largest source of revenue, is projected to have a shortfall of $5.9 million for FY21.

The TOT typically accounts for about 30% of the city budget. With the hospitality and tourism industry taking a global hit, Dana Point will see the financial consequences.

But city staff has adapted to the financial uncertainties by cutting personnel costs. Job vacancies have remained unfilled and employees have been cross-trained. Employee raises have been cut from the budget, too.

“We have a dedicated, agile staff,” Federico said. “I’m really proud of how our city went above and beyond to not only adapt but to ensure the safety of our residents and to support our local businesses.”

Federico was first elected to service on city council for District 3 in 2018. He was appointed mayor in November after having served as mayor pro tem through most of 2020. As council and city staff anticipate Dana Point Times January 1-7, 2021

Mayor Jamey Federico, who was first elected to Dana Point City Council in 2018 to represent the city’s third district, visits Waterman Plaza near the intersection of Pacific Coast Highway and Del Obispo Street. Photo: Lillian Boyd

navigating economic recovery, Federico says that an economic study conducted in 2020 will help city leaders explore alternative revenue sources.

“We’re going to have big economic milestones this year,” Federico said. “One of the other things we’re going to do this year is update the city’s General Plan.

We’re hopefully going to approve the Doheny Village Revitalization Plan.”

The city is still operating under the original General Plan that was approved when the city was formed in 1989. Certain elements have seen revisions, but the entire plan has never been updated. Efforts to create an updated plan for the Doheny Village (or Capistrano Beach Village) area were first initiated in the 1980s, as well.

City staff and consultants are currently working on an environmental impact review for the Doheny Village Capital Improvement Plan, which could be available to the public as soon as February 2021.

In light of the new year, Federico has identified some areas of improvement for the city to work toward.

“One of the things we learned through COVID is the importance of community engagement,” Federico said. “It’s not one of the things we’ve been best at, particularly with our departments interacting directly with the community. We’re going to create a system where our departments have more internal communication to improve on how we serve the community.”

Hypothetically speaking, if the city’s police services is called out to respond to an issue that is more suitable for code enforcement (or vice versa), Federico says he hopes to assemble a formal plan that helps guide the departments in crosscommunication and follow-up.

As for the community, Federico asks that residents and businesses continue to show the support that they have for one another.

“I would just ask our residents to continue supporting one another and our local businesses,” Federico said. “Our resi-

dents have been great in supporting one another. As the health risks of COVID are lessened with the vaccine, I hope that they can still continue to support one another.”

WHAT’S NEXT: The next Dana Point City Council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 19 at 6 p.m. at Dana Point City Hall.

Meetings are livestreamed on the City of Dana Point YouTube account.—Lillian Boyd

Next Phase of Vaccine Distribution Outlined as Stay-At-Home Order Extended THE LATEST: As the coronavirus pandemic rages on, the state of California continues to look ahead.

On Monday, Dec. 28, Gov. Gavin Newsom outlined Phase 1B recipients of the state’s vaccine distribution plan, and on the following day, Health and Human Services secretary Dr. Mark Ghaly confirmed that the stay-athome order would remain in place in the Southern California region because the projected four-week available ICU capacity and other pandemic metrics are not improving.

California is still in Phase 1A of its COVID-19 vaccine distribution plans, with the state’s health care workers, first responders and nursing home facility staff and residents continuing to receive their first doses.

For Phase 1B, which could start in the next month, Newsom said the state has outlined a group of recipients that includes people 75 and older, teachers, child care workers, emergency services workers, and food and agriculture workers. Incarcerated individuals are also expected to be in this group.

Newsom estimated that 262,000 doses had been administered in California as of Monday, with 1.8 million doses in supply.

The state expects to receive 297,375 more Pfizer-manufactured vaccines and 232,000 more Moderna-manufactured vaccines by

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the end of the week.

The vaccine distribution plans are another step forward, while the state’s regional stayat-home orders—the first of which for the Southern California and the San Joaquin Valley regions ended their initial three weeks on Sunday, Dec. 27—will be extended.

As originally outlined, after the initial three-week period of the stay-at-home orders passed, the state will now make a daily review of each region’s projected four-week available ICU capacity, and if that projection remains under 15%, the order shall remain in place. Once the region’s four-week projection shows 15% availability or greater, the region will be released from the order.

The projections are based on the region’s current ICU capacity, seven-day average case rate per 100,000 residents, transmission rate and rate of ICU admission. Dr. Ghaly noted the case rate may be chief among these metrics for projection, as the state has found about 12% of new cases are in the hospital within 10-12 days of a positive test and that 10% or more of those newly hospitalized cases will eventually enter the ICU. The Southern California region and Orange County were again both listed at 0.0% adjusted ICU availability on Tuesday, Dec. 29.

The San Joaquin Valley (0.0%), the Bay Area (10.4%) and Greater Sacramento (19.1%) regions are the other three of the state’s five regions under the stay-at-home order. Currently, the San Joaquin Valley is the only other region to go through its initial three weeks and will also receive the daily four-week projections. Northern California is at 27.9%.

Both the state and county are at a record number of COVID-19 hospitalizations at 21,240 and 2,106, respectively. Orange County is at a record number of ICU patients with 473.—Zach Cavanagh

Cities File Amicus Brief in Support of Barnes Ahead of Appeal THE LATEST: Hundreds of OC inmates might be released due to the coronavirus.

The American Civil Liberties Union of Southern California says an appeals court has just denied an attempt by Orange County Sheriff Don Barnes to prevent the release of half of the jail population.

“Sheriff Barnes must comply with the order and submit a plan to reduce the jail population. Doing so will save lives,” the ACLU tweeted on Tuesday, Dec. 29.

Ahead of Christmas on Wednesday, Dec. 23, a group of Orange County cities filed an amicus brief to the Court of Appeal in California in support of Barnes, who was challenging a recent court order requiring that he release up to 50% of the county jail population in order to implement socialdistancing measures and protect medically vulnerable inmates.

(Cont. on page 4) danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP (Cont. from page 3) “If this ruling is allowed to stand, it will potentially result in the release of individuals who have been charged with serious and violent crimes,” Barnes wrote in a Dec. 16 letter to the county’s cities, encouraging them to file amicus briefs.

In special meetings on Dec. 21, the Dana Point and San Clemente city councils voted unanimously to join the amicus brief in support of Barnes’ appeal to the order, which, he believes, could result in the release of hundreds of “dangerous offenders.” San Juan Capistrano City Manager Ben Seigel approved that city joining the amicus brief, as well.

“Among our jail population are 490 inmates who have been charged with murder or attempted murder. Our jail population includes 237 people charged with child molestation,” Barnes wrote. “In my view, the release of even one of these inmates is too many.”

The amicus brief argues that there is no evidence that the order will have the desired effect and that simply releasing inmates will not necessarily prevent them from contracting the coronavirus.

“Relatedly, the Respondent Court’s Order does not take into account the current status of the two approved vaccines and that inmates are likely to be able to receive the vaccines soon,” the brief stated. “Providing vaccines is a more circumspect solution to this potential issue versus a massive release of dangerous inmates into the public.”

The brief also argues that OCSD had been proactively taking steps to mitigate the risks of COVID-19 in its jails as early as March.

The brief goes on to state that the jails began releasing some individuals 10 days early to stop the spread of COVID-19 while taking steps to reduce the prison population by creating accelerated release procedures for nonviolent offenders and the medically vulnerable.

“Sheriff Barnes continued to act in the in-

NEWS BITES COMPILED BY STAFF

$35,000 Available in Scholarships from Cox Charities Cox Charities is offering $35,000 in college scholarships to high school seniors in the Orange County and Palos Verdes areas. The Cox Scholars scholarships range from $2,500 to $5,000. Recipients must be a 2021 graduating high school senior living in Cox’s Southern California service area.

Applications are now open. Deadline to complete and submit the online application is Friday, February 3, 2021. For more information, visit coxcharitiesca.org.

“Now, more than ever, students in our community are working hard to achieve their educational dreams amid new learnDana Point Times January 1-7, 2021

Dana Point

TOTAL CASES

COVID-19 UPDATES as of 12/30/20

cases

deaths

TOTAL

865

5

LAST 30 DAYS

430

1

LAST 30 DAYS

est. population • 34,000 Follow us on Facebook & Instagram for daily local & county statistics. Source: Orange County Health Care Agency

Finance and The Center of Lendistry.

Applicants who submitted their application and submitted all documentation in the first round do not need to reapply; qualified applications will be automatically rolled over into the next funding round for consideration.

WHAT’S NEXT: The amount of grant funding ranges from $5,000 to $25,000.

Businesses are eligible based on their annual revenue as documented in their most recent tax return. Applicants will need their application certification, business financial information and governmentissued identification.—LB

Woman Dies in Dana Point Car Crash on Christmas Eve

THE LATEST: The application process for

California small businesses in need of relief began at 6 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 30, and closes on Jan. 8.

The state announced the assistance package that includes $500 million in grant funding for small businesses and nonprofits affected by COVID-19, and the associated health and safety restrictions.

The California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA) will administer the program.

The Dana Point Chamber of Commerce recommends that businesses take time in researching an organization through which to apply. Applicants are instructed to pick one that best suits the business’s needs. Organizations include the Asian Business Association, the California Association for Microenterprise Opportunity (CAMEO), the California Association of Nonprofits, California Small Business Development Center, CA Women’s Business Center Network, CDC Small Business

ing circumstances and tough financial times due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Chanelle Hawken, vice president of government and public affairs for Cox Communications in California. “As a company founded by a teacher, we continue to support local students and education in San Diego and look forward to awarding our annual scholarships in the new year.”

Scholarship recipients will be chosen based on their scholastic achievement, extracurricular activities, volunteerism, and staying focused on their educational goals despite facing adversity in their lives.

“Before you apply, review the scholarship requirements carefully and make sure you’re eligible before spending time putting an application together,” a Cox Charities press release states. “If you don’t meet the requirements such as G.P.A. or place of residence, your application will not be considered.”

Applicants should use tax forms to declare income or give a best estimate if tax forms are unavailable. To be most effective, don’t

leave any sections blank, Hawken advises.

“The scholarship committee wants to know what applicants are interested in,” the release states. “Make sure to provide an accurate timeline that includes all activities from the previous four years. Make sure not to repeat information in multiple places.”

For a personal statement, don’t wait until the last minute to put this together, Hawken says.

“Give yourself time to think about the topic, and answer from your own personal experience,” the release states. “The more passionate you are, the better your statement. Ask someone you trust to read it and give feedback. And don’t forget to run a spellcheck.”

Scholarships are funded by employee payroll donations that are matched by the company. A volunteer advisory board of Cox employees oversees the foundation and its giving programs.

In 2020, 10 Cox Scholars from Orange County and Palos Verdes were recognized for their successes in the classroom and in the community.

terests of public safety and inmate protecting by pursuing a strategy or early release and implementation of $0 bail,” the court filing continued. “The result was initially a 33% reduction in the prison population and eventually a 50% reduction based on an individualized assessment of inmate vulnerability and danger to the community.”

Sergeant Dennis Breckner, a public information officer for OCSD, says Barnes is reviewing the agency’s legal obligation per the latest court decision.

“Sheriff Barnes’ ultimate responsibility is the safety of our community,” Breckner said.—LB

State Announces Grant Funding for Small Businesses Impacted by COVID

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THE LATEST: Orange County Sheriff’s Department responded to a fatal, solo vehicle crash on Pacific Coast Highway at Doheny Park Plaza in Dana Point on the morning of Dec. 24.

Upon arrival, deputies assigned to Dana Point Police Services discovered a deceased woman in a Lexus sedan.

“Several witnesses reported that the vehicle was traveling at a high speed when it crashed and rolled over multiple times,” said Sergeant Dennis Breckner, a public information officer for OCSD. “Pacific Coast Highway was closed in all directions at 6:50 a.m. and reopened at 10:52 a.m.”

Breckner says that OCSD’s Major Accident Response Team (MART) responded and will conduct an investigation. The victim has been identified as Katrina Lynn Cole-Scott, 52, of Huntington Beach.

It remains unclear at this time whether alcohol or drugs played a role in the accident.—LB

Community Meetings MONDAY, JANUARY 4

WINTER RECREATION CLASSES START Visit danapoint.org/recreation for more information on virtual classes.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 5

DANA POINT CITY COUNCIL MEETING – CANCELED

Have something interesting for the community?

Send your information to editorial@danapointtimes.com danapointtimes.com

DP SOAPBOX Dana Point

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

Letters to the Editor LACK OF STANDING BILL PRESTRIDGE, San Clemente

Apparently, Rudy Giuliani, Kayleigh McEnany and Donald Trump do not know the meaning of the words “Lack of Standing.”

These three continue the charade of “massive voter fraud,” leading to the weakening of our democracy and the dangers our country faces.

The Supreme Court and over 50 other courts have said that the bogus lawsuits brought by Trump and other Republicans have a “Lack of Standing,” meaning there is no evidence to their claims.

If you want to live in a banana republic, join the Republican Party.

RESPONDING TO ‘HOW SAFE IS THE WATER AT SANO?’ ROGER JOHNSON, San Clemente

We all owe a debt to surfer Jake Howard for his Dec. 3 piece, “How Safe Is the Water at SanO?” Surfing is an important part of the history and culture of San Clemente, and we all want to preserve it. But Jake goes beyond that and warns about the threat to the future of our city posed by San Onofre radiation. He reports on a recent Zoom seminar here with radiation biologist Ian Fairlie entitled “Is It Safe to Live Near San Onofre Nuclear Power Plant?”

Everyone knows by now the threat of the 1,773 tons of highly radioactive uranium and plutonium on our beaches now that we are a nuclear waste dump.

Officials hired by Edison have stated that it may remain here for the rest of the century in temporary thin canisters designed to last only a few decades.

Dr. Fairlie now introduces an entirely new threat that is already upon us: new evidence that tritium is much more dangerous than previously imagined. He says that the neutron bombardment of water molecules in the concrete domes has an activation reaction which contaminates the concrete and causes it to release tritium, a beta emitter which can cause cancer if inhaled or swallowed. The radiation continues long after a nuclear power plant closes. As Jake points out, Dr. Fairlie says that people living within three miles of San Onofre are at increased risk for cancer. That comes close to Concordia Elementary School and the residents and businesses of South San Clemente. This also includes a lot of folks who live and work in North Camp Pendleton.

The nuclear industry likes to trivialize radiation dangers and call anyone who Dana Point Times January 1-7, 2021

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

disagrees a fearmonger. Reminds me of 50 years ago, when anyone mentioning the dangers of cigarette smoking was called a fearmonger. For those who missed the Samuel Lawrence Foundation Zoom meeting, you can read the science that Dr. Fairlie describes at this link: ianfairlie. org/news/concerns-over-proposed-tritium-discharges-from-fukushima-why-noapparent-concern-about-the-larger-tritiumreleases-from-hunterston-b-and-torness.

Other recommended reading would be “Health Risks from Exposure to Low Levels of Ionizing Radiation” published by the National Academy of Sciences.

LET’S BE KIND TO ONE ANOTHER DENISE ZIVOLICH, San Clemente

Last week, I witnessed some very inconsiderate behavior at a couple of local businesses while in self-checkout. I will not go into full detail, as you have better things to do with your time than read a treatise here. What I will say is that I have seen store employees treated with disrespect and utter contempt.

In both instances, the employees were doing their jobs, and very well, might I add.

They also attempted to be respectful to the customers, even though the customers were completely wrong and out of control.

In one instance, I did get involved to protect an employee and waited until the customer left. I also stayed behind to let the employee know that her response was appropriate and that I hope it did not wreck her day.

In the other instance, I did not get involved, because it was an unmasked man who was yelling, and it only would have escalated his bad behavior. I did call the store and chatted with the human resources person to let her know her employees were above-board, and if the angry gentleman filed a complaint, it was unwarranted.

Both instances were regarding merchandise and not wearing masks.

I am writing this, because I wish to support all of the people who are still coming to work and dealing with stressed-out, angry customers.

Next time you have a store issue, and you are the angry type, I implore you to think about how you would feel if you were the employee being mistreated. Or, if you witness this kind of behavior, a reassurance to the employees does wonders for their psyches.

We are so blessed that our retail businesses and employees are there for us, so that we can continue to feed ourselves and purchase items required for basic survival.

Please, let’s all have a little more patience with one another.

governors are needlessly wiping out the livelihoods of millions of Americans while, at best, delaying the spread of COVID-19.

We were initially told, by these same power-drunk officials, that lockdowns were necessary to prevent overwhelming the hospitals. Even when it became apparent that this wasn’t a problem, the lockdowns were extended.

We are now browbeat with the same false assertion, and lockdowns are again in place. “Lives are more important than property” goes the mantra endlessly repeated ad nauseam.

Meanwhile, according to the U.N., about 130 million people could starve (globally) because of these lockdowns. Eighty million children are at risk from traditional diseases (pertussis, polio) because fear of COVID-led parents to forego immunizations.

Other medical treatments have been delayed or foregone due to fear of COVID-19. Deaths from cancer and diabetes will rise while the quality of life decreases for survivors.

Mental health problems have skyrocketed. A June CDC survey found that one in four young adults between 18-24 had seriously considered suicide. Spousal and child abuse have risen as well.

Lockdowns have never been used as a means of controlling disease.

Traditionally, the sick and vulnerable have been isolated, while the healthy were allowed to continue their lives.

If hospitals are at risk of being overwhelmed, rather than destroy the livelihood of millions, efforts should be made to increase beds available rather than arbitrarily demanding restaurants, bars and gyms be closed.

It is unconscionable that our San Clemente hospital remains empty while small businesses are told to close.

The Javits Center in NYC was built in record time, and Mercy Ships were sent to both NYC and LA. Samaritan’s Purse supplied the needs of hundreds of patients in NYC, Alaska and Italy.

Has our governor or the mayors tapped any of these resources? Until they do, all Americans should vigorously resist these unconstitutional lockdowns.

COVID-19 DAVID DAVIDSON, San Clemente

Dictatorial lockdowns by our nation’s Page 5

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY

Have something you’d like to say? Email your letter to letters@danapointtimes.com no later than 8 a.m. on Monday. 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 or fewer words. Please send with your valid email, phone number and address for verification by staff. Your address and phone number will not be published. Dana Point Times and Picket Fence Media do not publish content that is defamatory.

phone 949.388.7700 fax 949.388.9977 danapointtimes.com

HOW TO REACH US S E N I O R C I T Y E D I TO R Lillian Boyd • 949.388.7700, x113 lboyd@picketfencemedia.com

SPORTS Zach Cavanagh • 949.388.7700, x110 zcavanagh@picketfencemedia.com

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PICKET FENCE MEDIA PUBLISHER Norb Garrett

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EDITORIAL

ART + DESIGN

Senior City Editor, DP Times Lillian Boyd

Art Director Jasmine Smith

City Editor, SC Times Shawn Raymundo City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch Collin Breaux

Graphic Designer Chelsie Rex O P E R AT I O N S General Manager Alyssa Garrett

Sports Editor Zach Cavanagh

Group Operations & Production Coordinator Inna Cazares

Columnist Fred Swegles

FINANCE

Special Projects Editor Andrea PapagianisCamacho Copy Editor Randy Youngman ADVERTISING Associate Publisher Lauralyn Loynes

Finance Director Mike Reed Accounting & Finance Manager Tricia Zines CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Jake Howard, Tim Trent, Chloe Anady

Dana Point Times, Vol. 14 Issue 1. 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 2021. All rights reserved.

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DP GETTING OUT DP Dana Point

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

Dana Point Point Dana

How Important Is Compatibility in Relationships?

M

Photo: Ocean Institute Facebook

FRIDAY, JANUARY 1: A STORY WRITTEN IN STONE: HARBOR GEOLOGY HIKE 12:30-1:30 p.m. Participants will be guided by an instructor on a tour that highlights the geological principles and ideas reflecting the natural history of Dana Point Harbor. The group will examine the rock layers and geologic structures that surround Ocean Institute and form the harbor to uncover the geologic story of how the harbor was shaped over 15 million years into what it looks like today. Afterward, participants will observe sediment samples from around the world under microscopes and discuss sediment transportation in the ocean. The duration of the tour is one hour and costs $10 per person. Participants must wear face masks. Ocean Institute, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. 949.496.2274. ocean-institute.org.

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.

Sunday | 02 HOLIDAY ‘SMALL-I-DAY’ CAMPS 9 a.m.-noon. Ocean Institute is offering small-group camps with outdoor enrichment and the highest safety standards.

Campers will join in on a squid dissection, create their own holiday ornament with classic maritime knots, experience fake snow through a fun science experiment, and compare squid anatomy to reindeers during “Reindeer Games.” This program is ideal for 5- to 10-year-olds. Price is $30 per person. Staff and participants must wear masks. Ocean Institute, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point.

Dana Point Times January 1-7, 2021

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

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

EDITOR’S PICK

The List

DP LIVING

949.496.2274. ocean-institute.org.

KAYAKING TOURS 10 a.m.-noon. Explore the ocean from the water. Join the Ocean Institute for a two-hour interactive kayak tour around the Dana Point harbor. Learn about the history of the harbor and its unique ecosystem from an expert naturalist. All experience levels are welcome. Must be at least 12 years old to participate. Guests under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Pricing is $40 per person; members receive 10% discount. Please sign up in advance, as space is limited. Walk-ins will not be allowed. Staff and participants must wear face masks. Ocean Institute, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point.

949.496.2274. ocean-institute.org.

Wednesday | 06 YOGA CLASS 9 a.m. Inspired by multiple yoga traditions, this class blends various disciplines to create a unique, integrated practice suitable for both beginner and seasoned yoga practitioners. Please bring your own mat. Cost to join is $10, which is due at the door. Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente. 949.498.2139. casaromantica.org.

arie, 68 and divorced, is puzzled.

She emailed: “Is compatibility the basic foundation when meeting someone? So many people are involved in non-compatible relationships where passion and emotion are missing.”

“Why am I so confused about this? I need clarity,” Marie concluded.

I asked other readers who have recently written to me how they feel about the importance of compatibility in relationships.

Kay emailed: “I am far beyond 50, however, I am in excellent health and am full of energy, and have a good sense of humor! I am blessed that my dad taught me about cars, guns, and sports. This enables me to get along with men, as we have much in common.”

“Compatibility is important,” she added. “Couples can have interests that are different … but I find life calm and peaceful and yet exhilarating when two people enjoy similar things and both love the same way.”

Susan said, “Compatibility must be present but also compassion and understanding. Two ON LIFE AND LOVE AFTER 50 people are not compatBy Tom Blake ible because they like the same things all the time. They are compatible because they have many qualities that encourage understanding, patience, compassion, desirability, attraction, and more.

“If you enjoy home-cooked meals and neither of you likes to cook, then you are probably not going to be compatible after the newness of the relationship wears off.”

Althea emailed: “Compatibility is important, especially for people 60-plus.

When you are older and have already developed all your values, likes, and dislikes, quirks, habits, etc., you need and want someone who shares those things.

“I get excited initially when I see a man on a dating site who grew up in New England where I’m from, or loves dogs, only to discover some deal breakers: like he lives a seven-hour drive away, is a smoker, or is politically opposite.”

Two Orange County men offered their opinions on compatibility in relationships.

Wayne said, “Like-mindedness is very important in a healthy relationship. As

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we go through the various stages of life (youth, marriage(s), building a career, raising a family, etc.), we deal with many issues including resolving lots of conflicts.

“At 73, I now prefer a relatively stressfree, drama-free life. Why not enjoy the final chapters of one’s life with both friends and loved ones who share similar values and interests?

“Basic (not perfect) compatibility adds both longevity and quality to one’s life.”

And Tom shared: “I met Linda online— Our Time—and clicked on the first wine meetup. We’ve been dating exclusively since June 2019.

“I became a widower in 2005, and she was widowed in 2015.

“Widows and widowers, if they can get over their loss, are comfortable knowing someone already has—and a new person can—rekindle their love of life. They are not trying to duplicate the past, but know the traits that excite them and embrace reality.

“Linda is a fantastic cook, and I’m a diligent cleaner-upper so we work together on meals and then enjoy Netflix or a TV sporting event.

“Compatibility is very important. I don’t think ‘opposites attract’ is worth the time to make it a success. The willingness to work together shows mutual caring for each other. Linda found gardening to be enjoyable working with me. Be a giver more than a taker.”

Hopefully, the comments from the five above readers will clear up Marie’s confusion about compatibility in relationships.

It’s imperative in relationships, particularly during this pandemic when most of us are cooped up together under one roof.

But other qualities need to be present as well—physical attraction, caring, kindness, and love. All are important.

Tom Blake is a retired Dana Point business owner and 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. The Dana Point Times and Picket Fence Media do not publish content that is defamatory.

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Adoptable Pet of the Week: Sarah

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

DANA POINT TIMES

S

arah is a 5-month-old cutie who just can’t wait to meet you. When she’s not snuggling with the other kittens, Sarah keeps herself entertained by birdwatching or batting around her favorite toys. Sarah’s lovable personality makes her a great fit in just about any home.

If you are interested in adopting Sarah, please visit petprojectfoundation.org to download an adoption application form.

Completed forms can be emailed to ani-

Dana Wharf Fish Report

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

Cold weather doesn’t deter good fishing

malservices@scdpanimalshelter.org, and you will be contacted about making an interaction appointment. DP

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, DANA POINT TIMES

D

Sudoku

BY MYLES MELLOR

Each Sudoku puzzle consists of a 9x9 grid that has been subdivided into nine smaller grids of 3x3 squares.

To solve the puzzle, each row, column and box must contain each of the numbers 1 to 9.

Puzzles come in three grades: easy, medium and difficult. Level: Medium Last week’s solution:

See the solution in next week’s issue.

espite the week of colder weather, 2020 closes on a good note for fishing at Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching.

In his weekly report, Captain Brian Woolley said the Dana Wharf fleet had a solid week of fishing with 58-degree waters all week. The half-day fishing trips followed a familiar script, with the cooler weather punctuated by some sunny days that brought some bass action to the surface. The bass were biting on fly-lined sardines and artificial lures, and the sheephead were biting on more exotic baits including shrimp.

The shrimp bait worked out well for a halfday charter on Christmas Eve. Woolley said the group only wanted sheephead, and their load of shrimp bait pulled in nearly 50 sheephead, with plenty of caught and released fish.

The charter found its catches in a shallow reef and also pulled in some bass and triggerfish.

The three-quarter-day trips found their action toward the bottom, with great numbers of vermilion rockfish. Woolley said the fish were being found in the deeper reef areas following the schools of bait fish. He also said that movement made them a little unpredictable, as the fish would be on their spot some days and would be caught in the mud on other days as they chased the schools.

Around the reefs, there were whitefish catches and some good sculpin on the edges. Woolley said they would ride through the end of the month with rockfish before switching over to targeting the sculpin.

The Halibut Derby slowed down a little, as Woolley reported no new halibut action. The captain said the good run of halibut from a couple weeks ago has not been matched on

Mike Kanel of San Clemente pulled in this sheephead on a Christmas Eve charter that focused on that fish, using a load of shrimp bait. Photos: Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching

the last few Derby drift trips. Woolley said it was hard to say why exactly. “Just no good sign of fish, I guess,” he said.

The top six positions on the Halibut Derby leaderboard are all catches from Dec. 6, including the clear leader of 24 pounds, 10 ounces from Frank Sahanas.

For more info on the Halibut Derby and all fishing trips from Dana Wharf, check out danawharf.com.

Here are the latest fish counts from Dana Wharf Sportsfishing & Whale Watching: Dec. 30 • 2 boats, 59 anglers: 72 whitefish, 55 rockfish, 52 vermilion rockfish, 42 sculpin, 18 sheephead, 3 blue perch, 1 rubber lip perch, 50 bass released.

Dec. 29 • 2 boats, 58 anglers: 82 whitefish, 42 sculpin, 32 rockfish, 30 vermilion rockfish, 7 sheephead, 35 bass released.

Dec. 28 • No trips due to inclement weather.

Dec. 27 • 4 boats, 76 anglers: 80 rockfish, 48 whitefish, 38 vermilion rockfish, 27 sculpin, 10 bocaccio, 1 calico bass, 1 sand bass, 29 bass released.

Dec. 26 • 3 boats, 62 anglers: 38 vermilion rockfish, 31 sheephead, 35 whitefish, 76 rockfish, 15 sheephead, 3 calico bass, 2 blue perch, 1 treefish.

Dec. 25 • No trips due to holiday.

The three-quarter-day trips were finding good rockfish action as they followed the fish that were chasing bait schools.

Dana Point Times January 1–7, 2021

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Dec. 24 • 2 boats, 39 anglers: 80 vermilion rockfish, 75 rockfish, 47 sheephead, 28 sculpin, 23 whitefish, 3 calico bass, 2 blue perch, 1 trigger fish. DP danapointtimes.com

PUBLIC NOTICES TO ADVERTISE: 949.388.7700, EXT. 111 • LEGALS@PICKETFENCEMEDIA.COM PUBLIC NOTICE Order to Show Cause For Change of Name Case No. 20FL000772 To All Interested Persons: Kelly Bolken; Kelly Bolken on behalf of Jake Bolken, a minor, filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME A. Kelly Carmen Bolken B. Jake Michael Bolken PROPOSED NAME A. Kelly Carmen Finn B. Jake Michael Finn 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: 04/09/2021 Time: 08:30 a.m. Dept.: W10 Window: 44. The address of the court is REMOTE Lamoreaux Justice Center, 341 The City Drive South, Orange, CA 92868. 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: Dana Point Times.

Date: December 2, 2020 JUDGE LON F. HURWITZ, Judge of the Superior Court Published: Dana Point Times Dec 25, 2020, Jan 1, 8, 15, 2021 PUBLIC NOTICE T.S. No.: 2019-0102 Loan No.: SEVEN SEAS DR APN: 670-082-04 Property Address: 32401 SEVEN SEAS DRIVE, DANA POINT, CA 92629 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 5/7/2018.

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. A public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash, cashier’s check drawn on a state or national bank, check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, or savings association, or savings bank specified in Section 5102 of the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state will be held by the duly appointed trustee as shown below, of all right, title, and interest conveyed to and now held by the trustee in the hereinafter described property under and pursuant to a Deed of Trust described below. The 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 the Deed of Trust, with interest and late charges thereon, as provided in the note(s), advances, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, interest thereon, fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee for the total amount (at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale) reasonably estimated to be set forth below.

The amount may be greater on the day of sale. Trustor: HELEN M. WEATHERBY, TRUSTEE OF THE HELEN M. WEATHERBY TRUST DATED SEPTEMBER 22, 2004 Duly Appointed Trustee: WESTERN FIDELITY TRUSTEES Recorded 5/11/2018 Dana Point Times January 1–7, 2021

as Instrument No. 2018-000172033 in book , page of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of Orange County, California, Date of Sale 01/11/2021 at 1:30 PM Place of Sale: At the north front entrance to the county courthouse at 700 Civic Center Drive West, Santa Ana, CA 92701 Amount of unpaid balance and other charges: $1,244,021.09 Street Address or other common designation of real property: 32401 SEVEN SEAS DRIVE DANA POINT, CA 92629 A.P.N.: 670-082-04 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address or other common designation, if any, shown above. If no street address or other common designation is shown, directions to the location of the property may be obtained by sending a written request to the beneficiary within 10 days of the date of first publication of this Notice of Sale. 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 (916) 939-0772 or visit this internet website www. nationwideposting.com, using the file number assigned to this case 2019-0102. 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 website. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. NOTICE TO TENANT: Effective 1/1/2021 you may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction pursuant to Section 2924m of the California Civil Code. If you are an “eligible tenant buyer,” you can purchase the property if you match the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. If you are an “eligible bidder,” you may be able to purchase the property if you exceed the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. There are three steps to exercising this right of purchase. First, 48 hours after the date of the trustee sale, you can call 916-939-0772, or visit this internet website www.nationwideposting.com using the file number assigned to this case, 2019-0102 to find the date on which the trustee’s sale was held, the amount of the last and highest bid, and the address of the trustee. Second, you must send a written notice of intent to place a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 15 days after the trustee’s sale. Third, you must submit a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 45 days after the trustee’s sale. If you think you may qualify as an “eligible tenant buyer” or “eligible bidder,” you should consider contacting an attorney or appropriate real estate professional immediately for advice regarding this potential right

to purchase. Date: 12/10/2020 WESTERN FIDELITY TRUSTEES 1222 Crenshaw Blvd., SUITE B Torrance, California 90501 Sale Line: (310)212-0700 Kathleen Herrera, Trustee Officer NPP0372404 To: DANA POINT TIMES 12/18/2020, 12/25/2020, 01/01/2021 PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20206590494 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: KANDI COLLABORATIVE 26921 CALLE MARIA CAPISTRANO BEACH, CA 92624-9262 Full Name of Registrant(s): KANDACE L PATTERSON 26921 CALLE MARIA CAPISTRANO BEACH, CA 92624 This 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/KANDACE PATTERSON This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 11/30/2020.

Published in: Dana Point Times Dec 18, 25, 2020, Jan 1, 8, 2021 PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20206590490 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: RINSE 26921 CALLE MARIA

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CAPISTRANO BEACH, CA 92624-9262 Full Name of Registrant(s): KANDACE PATTERSON 26921 CALLE MARIA CAPISTRANO BEACH, CA 92624 This 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/KANDACE PATTERSON This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 11/30/2020.

Published in: Dana Point Times Dec 18, 25, 2020, Jan 1, 8, 2021 PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20206590736 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: CHE’S PERSONAL TRAINING 26701 QUAIL CRK APT 179 LAGUNA HILLS, CA 92656 Full Name of Registrant(s): CHE DURAN 26701 QUAIL CRK APT 179 LAGUNA HILLS, CA 92656 This 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/CHE DURAN This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 12/02/2020.

Published in: Dana Point Times Dec 18, 25, 2020, January 1, 8, 2021

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, bodymindspiritiop.com

ATTORNEY

Rosen Law Offices, P.C.

34118 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 5, 949.335.0020, snrosenlaw.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, coffeeimporters.com

COFFEE SHOP

Coffee Importers Espresso Bar

34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, coffeeimporters.com

ICE CREAM

Coffee Importers Scoop Deck

34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, coffeeimporters.com

INSURANCE SERVICES

State Farm/Elaine LaVine

34080 Golden Lantern, 949.240.8944, elainelavine.net

MASSAGE THERAPY

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

Yeungs Violin Studio

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

PLUMBING

A to Z Leak Detection

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

Bill Metzger Plumbing

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

UPHOLSTERY & INTERIORS

Jeddy’s Interiors

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

WANT TO BE FEATURED HERE? Email lloynes@picketfencemedia.com for pricing.

danapointtimes.com

CLASSIFIEDS Submit your classified ad online at danapointtimes.com

DP BUSINESS DIRECTORY

DSaan n Cl a em Poenintet

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

HELP WANTED WAREHOUSE POSITION Must have experience in shipping and receiving, fork-lift certified, requires lifting and must have valid Drivers License with a clean driving record. Full-Time, benefits, 401K. ...

Please email your resume (if available) to: dromero@ndaonline.net To fill out an application please email request to: dromero@ndaonline.net Or contact the office to speak with Gil for warehouse position.

Debe tener experiencia en el envío y bodega, forklift certificado, debe tener licencia de conducir válida con un registro de conducción limpio. Tiempo completo, beneficios, 401K. ...

Por favor envíe su currículum (si está disponible) a: dromero@ndaonline.net Para llenar una solicitud por favor envíe un correo electrónico a: dromero@ndaonline.net O póngase en contacto con la oficina para hablar con Gil para el puesto de almacén/ bodega. Telefono 949.492.4399 P&C LICENSED TEAM MEMBER Get 2021 off to a great start!

Local Insurance Agent seeks a P&C Licensed Team member for a Customer Sales/Service Position. Income based on your efforts, Flexibility available, Experience Preferred, apply at www.elainelavine.net

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

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

VOLUNTEER VIRTUALLY The opportunity to help a child read is no longer restricted by location—we are virtual.

Volunteers ages 50+ needed.

Join our info session on January 8 at 10:30 a.m. or January 13 at 9 a.m. Contact Elizah Siegel to receive ZOOM Link. 949.257.2637 Parentisfoundation.org an AARP Foundation Affiliate

Dana Point Times January 1-7, 2021

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DP DP SURF Dana Point

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

12 Moments in Surf That Made 2020

GROM OF THE WEEK

ALL THE GROMS

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

W

ow, we made it to the end of 2020—the year that seemed as if it would never end. What a ride it’s been. If you’re like me, for the last bunch of months, one day seems to just blend into another, and time almost stood still.

Looking back on the year in surf, it all started so innocently before things got weird. In case you forgot, here are some of the biggest stories from the year that kept kicking and screaming all the way to the end.

January

The year started off with earthshaking surf industry news, as Nike agreed to sell Hurley to Blue Star Alliance. The business of surf has taken some serious hits over the past few years, but at the time, this seemed like especially big news. Staff was laid off and surfers were clipped from the team. If we only had a better idea of what was coming down the line.

February

It was a good start to the competitive season, as San Clemente’s own, 14-yearold Sawyer Lindblad, won the WSL’s SLO CAL Open at Pismo Beach. Her first WSL Qualifying Series win, it was also one of the few contests that the league would run all year long.

March

Friday the 13th—that’s when my life changed. I’d been over at Dane Gudauskas’ house for a Positive Vibe Warrior meeting. When it was over, I went to Target—to buy toilet paper like the rest of the world—and that’s when the whole doomsday thing hit me. Friday the 13th, what a cruel twist of fate.

April

On April 8, San Clemente beaches were closed. It didn’t go over well. The initial closure lasted two weeks, and when they reopened, residents were only allowed to exercise on the beach and surf.

May

If there was a bright spot in May, it was probably the bioluminescence in the water.

Forgetting for a hot minute about the lockdown, families came down to the beach at night like it was the Fourth of July—but the fireworks were in the ocean instead of the sky.

Dana Point Times January 1-7, 2021

Max Beyer. Photo: Courtesy of Max Beyer/PVW

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

T

Pictured is a photo by Santa Barbara’s Paul Greene, winner of this year’s Follow the Light photo contest. Photo: Courtesy of Paul Greene

June

As businesses in the area began to reopen for one of the weirder summers in memory, an amazing thing happened: surfboard and wetsuit sales went through the roof.

If there’s been a silver lining to the age of COVID-19 around here, it’s been the resurgence in surfboard sales and how slammed all the shapers and glassers have been.

the WSL announced a number of sweeping changes. The big one for us locals is the newly created WSL Finals, which will feature the top five men and top five women in the world (based on their year-end ratings) in a one-day surf-off, with the winner taking the world title.

The event will take place at Lower Trestles this coming September.

July

November

The California Coastal Commission approved a nuclear waste monitoring program at the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station. The CCC’s unanimous decision essentially allows Southern California Edison to continue storing spent fuel through 2035.

August

The SoCal PaddleDown for Cancer Relay hit the California coast. A 250-mile ocean paddle that raises awareness about the dangers of sun exposure, the event was taken on by lifeguards from more than 25 agencies and began over Memorial Day weekend at El Refugio State Beach north of Santa Barbara and ended at Imperial Beach in San Diego.

September

This year, the Surfing Heritage and Culture Center’s Follow the Light Awards hosted a digital awards ceremony celebrating the works of aspiring surf photographers from around the world. With more than 75 submissions, the top honors went to Santa Barbara’s Paul Greene. The kid has the eye of a hawk; look out for his work in the years to come.

October

After the world tour season was canceled,

A string of late-season south swells and early-season northwest pulses made for a number of fun days, as the water temps dipped and the crowds thinned out a bit.

December

This time of year, my attention always turns to Hawaii. There have been a bunch of good swells at Pipeline, and some of the local boys have been scoring. Griffin Colapinto has been on fire over there, and dad Mitch has even been getting in the water and snapping some photos. Hopefully, by this time next year, I’ll be writing this from the beach on the North Shore and will have more good news to report.

Aloha and happy 2021.

Jake Howard is local surfer and freelance writer who lives in San Clemente.

A former editor at Surfer Magazine, The Surfer’s Journal and ESPN, today he writes for a number of publications, including the San Clemente Times, Dana Point Times, Surfline and the World Surf League. He also works with philanthropic organizations such as the Surfing Heritage and Culture Center and the Positive Vibe Warriors Foundation. DP

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o all the groms out there who kept the stoke level high this year and made the absolute most out of some challenging days, the next set wave is all yours.

Every week in this space, we get to celebrate the accomplishments of one grom or another from San Clemente or Dana Point, but for this week’s installment, it seems only fitting to throw out big shakas to all the kids, young and old, who kept surfing, kept helping their families stay healthy and happy, and made the most of the situations in which we’ve found ourselves.

From schools shutting down, to beaches closing and our favorite contests getting put on ice for the summer, you’ve made a lot of sacrifices and you’ve experienced a moment that can only be considered historic. But every time I saw groms down at the beach, they were stoked out of their minds to be in the water.

Surfing’s good like that. Whether you’re the youngest grom just floating out there with the tide or a salty old man, we’re lucky to be able to ride waves together and enjoy the ocean. Here’s to many more waves in the New Year! DP

SURF FORECAST Water Temperature: 58-60 Degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: 3-6 Outlook: On Friday, more West/northwest swell fills in, for waves running waist-shoulderhead high, (3-4-5’). Light offshore winds in the morning, turn to a moderate westerly sea breeze for the afternoon on Friday. Saturday’s surf rises as West/northwest swell strengthens into the shoulder high to a foot+ overhead range, (4-6’+), then Sunday’s waves peak at head high to a few feet overhead, (5-7’) as the swell tops out. Light offshore morning winds are followed by light+ afternoon onshores on Saturday and Sunday.

danapointtimes.com

Dana Point Times January 1-7, 2021

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