February 26, 2021

FEBRUARY 26-MARCH 4, 2021 | VOLUME 14, ISSUE 9

L O C A L

N E W S

Y O U

C A N

Inside: SPECIAL SECTION

U S E

Back in Action Football, Water Polo, Multiple HS Sports Can Start Seasons S P O R T S / PAG E 21

Dana Hills’ outdoor sports are back on the schedule, including twice-delayed football starting its six-game season on March 12. Photo: Alan Gibby/Zone57

danapointtimes.com

How to Surf with More ‘Aloha’

Teachers Union Raises COVID Safety Concerns with CUSD

Community Gives Input on Short-Term Rentals

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Dana Point Times February 26-March 4, 2021

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What’s Up With...

consecutive days. Short-term rentals are often arranged on websites such as Airbnb, Home Away or Vacation Rentals

by Owner (VRBO).

The City of Dana Point currently does not allow for short-term rentals within its zoning code. In order for that to change, there would need to be an amendment to zoning and, therefore, an amendment to the Local Coastal Plan (LCP) for the portions of the city that fall within the coastal zone—which is under the purview of the California Coastal Commission.

Attempts to regulate and allow for short-term rentals have not been without effort. In 2016, the City of Dana Point created a short-term rental (STR) program.

During the first year of the program, more than 200 permits were issued in Dana Point. In 2017, following a public referendum, the city council decided to stop issuing new short-term rental permits, but has allowed those with existing permits to annually renew and operate.

To date, there are 144 permits still operating throughout the city.

“Historically, short-term rentals have been part of Dana Point,” Johnathan Ciampa, senior city planner, has previously said. “The (California Coastal Commission) is the regulatory authority for land uses within the city’s coastal zone, and they really want cities to incorporate STRs as permitted uses to improve coastal access.”

In 2018, city council formed a subcommittee to reevaluate short-term rentals and guide the development of a new ordinance. Coastal Commission staff met with the subcommittee and reportedly recommended the city develop a pilot program in light of the city’s “sensitivity” to short-term rentals, Ciampa said.

“The program would be temporarily in effect for three years and would be approved by a (coastal development permit),” Ciampa said.

While the pilot program has yet to be officially approved by the city or the Coastal Commission, city attorney Patrick Muñoz has stated that the City of Dana Point is getting a “free pass” in pursuing this pilot program without having to first pursue an amendment to the LCP. In February 2020, Coastal Commission staff reportedly met with city officials, further suggesting that the pilot program allow for regulations, community compatibility and coastal access.

But, ultimately, the program will still require approval for a coastal development permit.

On July 21, city council directed staff to move forward with public outreach and the development of the STR pilot program—which would include various types of short-term rentals and establish a robust enforcement program to address potential impacts to the community.

The Planning Commission proceeded

TOP NEWS DANA POINT SHOULD KNOW THIS WEEK

Short-term rentals are often arranged on websites such as Airbnb, Home Away or Vacation Rentals by Owner (VRBO). Photo: Lillian Boyd

Short-Term Rental Workshop Spotlights Polarizing Experiences, Views

BY LILLIAN BOYD, DANA POINT TIMES

Are short-term rentals a right for property owners or a threat to the integrity of a neighborhood in which another property owner has invested?

Are short-term rentals a catalyst for coastal access or the demise of affordable housing?

City officials are grappling to navigate short-term rental regulation amid polarizing public debate. On Monday, Feb. 25, the Dana Point Planning Commission held its first short-term rental workshop since it was directed to further explore a pilot program for regulating shortterm rentals. Despite having to adapt to a virtual format, the Zoom meeting drew a turnout of dozens of community members who spoke out, including José Preciado.

“Please do not allow short-term rentals where the owner does not live there,” said Preciado. “They are not affordable for people like me. This would be bad for working families like mine. We can’t afford to lose homes to luxury vacation rentals.”

Preciado, a San Juan Capistrano resident who rents his home, works as a cook for Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa. For residents such as Jordan Abraham, of Capistrano Beach, short-term rentals Dana Point Times February 26-March 4, 2021

were what led him to discover what he described as one of the greatest cities in the world: Dana Point.

“We first visited the city back in 1996 (thanks to a short-term rental),” Abraham said. “I’ve seen people come here from all over the world and also discover this is one of the greatest places in the world— because of short-term rentals. What right do we have to tell someone what they can do with their house?”

Miriam Rupke, a property owner and short-term rental manager, says she screens her renters and turns about 40% of them away in order to maintain good standing with neighbors. Residents like Jer Derloshon, however, face consistent disturbances and conflicts from their own short-term renting neighbors. Other speakers referred to short-term rentals as “unsupervised hotels.”

“No matter how well-regulated, (shortterm rentals) are a fundamental change in the character of the residential experience that we all enjoy in Dana Point,” said Dana Point resident Mark Zenidas.

“The soul of the city is at issue here.”

Short-term rentals are defined as entire residential houses or apartments, or rooms within, that are rented out to visitors for a fee between one and 29 Page 3

Dana Point COVID-19 UPDATES as of Feb. 24

cases

deaths

total

1,423

29

165

7

last 30 days

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

in forming a subcommittee, with commissioners Eric Nelson and Roy Dohner, to further explore the pilot program.

This month marked the commission’s first public workshop on the proposed enhanced regulations of short-term rentals—after various stakeholder meetings.

“Staff and the subcommittee have come up with a two-phased approach for moving forward with city council’s direction,” Ciampa said in his presentation. The first phase includes developing new and enhanced regulations for existing short-term rentals and focusing on increasing penalties and addressing community concerns related to parking, noise and trash.

Enforcement issues have been a consistently resounding issue brought forward by opponents of STRs. Neighbors dealing with unruly STR tenants on weekends who report issues to the city say they often won’t hear back until Monday during office hours—or that STR owners are difficult to reach.

According to city staff, the majority of enforcement efforts have gone toward short-term rentals advertising without a permit. However, nuisance issues have recently increased in the past year.

The second phase will explore the development of a compatible and flexible program for which to apply permits.

So far, the subcommittee has identified stakeholder groups to include STR permit holders, management companies, neighbors and community groups. Throughout public comment at the Feb. 22 meeting, community members suggested that hotels and homeowners’ associations be included as stakeholders as well.

A CLOSER LOOK AT THE PILOT PROGRAM The short-term rental program would limit street parking to one space per bedroom with a maximum of two spaces.

The subcommittee is additionally considering requiring guests to park in the garage or driveway.

(Cont. on page 5) danapointtimes.com

Dana Point Times February 26-March 4, 2021

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(Cont. from page 3) As for noise, current regulations call for the owner to ensure tenants do not create unreasonable disturbances or engage in disorderly conduct.

“Action must be taken to prevent a recurrence within a 24-hour period,” Ciampa said. Additional regulations for consideration include implementing quiet hours between 10 p.m. and 9 a.m. and establishing a decibel level. There could potentially be an installation of noise monitors after an initial noise violation.

Trash would be stored in containers and only visible between the hours of 5 p.m. the day before and 9 a.m. the day after trash collection.

“Additional regulations for consideration are walkup trash service by CR&R,” Ciampa said.

rental unit on the other side. In my case, my STR neighbors are far superior to my long-term renter neighbors. It changes over time; we’ve had good neighbors there before,” Nelson said. “That being said, I have another neighbor across the street who tells me he’s had the opposite experience. We’ve all had our own individualized experiences with STRs.” Those experiences shape our opinions and how we view these issues, Nelson added.

“I encourage you to stay engaged. The more people who are involved, the more people we hear from, the better off we all are as a society. We need to work collaboratively,” Nelson said.

The city’s next steps will be to draft short-term rental business regulations based on Planning Commission direc-

Suggested additional regulations that have been gathered throughout the public outreach process include increases in fines, requiring guests to sign an acknowledgment of “good neighbor rules,” increasing the minimum renter age to 25, making the owner/manager’s contact info available, requiring owners and managers to respond to complaints within 20 minutes, requiring the STR permit number on all advertising and posting STR regulations inside the unit.

Ciampa added that additional comments suggested extending code enforcement hours during peak seasons.

CLOSING COMMENTS FROM CITY LEADERS “I live in the Lantern District, and I have an STR on one side and a normal

tion. The Planning Commission will then consider forwarding draft regulations to city council for adoption.

The Planning Commission’s short-term rental subcommittee will also kick off its second phase of continuing stakeholder meetings, public outreach and commission briefings.

To watch or participate in upcoming City of Dana Point meetings on shortterm rentals, you can request to be included on the email list by emailing str@ danapoint.org. Information to participate virtually will be made available prior to the meeting. For more information on STR regulation and workshops, visit danapoint.org/shorttermrentals.

“This will be the first of several opportunities to participate,” said Brenda Wisneski, the city’s community development director.

Teachers Union Raises Concerns with CUSD Over Pandemic Safety, Communication Issues

BY COLLIN BREAUX, DANA POINT TIMES

A local teachers union alleges there has been inadequate contact tracing and delayed notifications of positive COVID-19 cases on campuses.

Alleging lapses in communication from school administrators and concerns about COVID-19 protocol lapses not being taken seriously, the Capistrano Unified Education Association (CUEA) is calling for tightened safety measures and better responses from Capistrano Unified School District (CUSD).

In response, the school district said there has not been a single case of transmission at schools and that health measures are being followed.

CUSD is one of approximately 60 school districts in California utilizing a hybrid education model in which students can either attend classes on campus or continue learning online from home. Campus capacity for CUSD is limited, and social distancing and masks are required of students on campus. CUSD began its staggered campus reopening in September.

CUEA President Joy Schnapper said the union has been involved in ongoing conversations with CUSD, and she believes everyone is doing the best they can, but CUEA members felt they were being “put off” while raising concerns with school administrators.

Among CUEA’s allegations are that some members came into close contact with an individual who had COVID-19, without being notified by CUSD the individual had tested positive for the disease, and that notifications of cases at schools were not sent out within the required Dana Point Times February 26-March 4, 2021

24-hour time frame.

Schnapper said there were also times when people went to administrators with concerns about safety issues, but those apprehensions weren’t validated by administrators.

“We really did try to address these at the lowest level,” Schnapper said. “We really wanted to be taken seriously.”

CUSD spokesperson Ryan Burris said the district wants to assure its teachers that district leadership and department heads hold weekly meetings with Schnapper.

“The purpose of these meetings is to address concerns and, when necessary, investigate issues, and discuss next steps,” Burris said. “We are grateful for the collaboration and partnership as we work together to support our teachers and certificated staff.”

Schnapper said the recent tension is a wake-up call and that she believes CUSD will work on the issue. CUEA will check back in with members to see if there has been improvement, and legal options are available if conditions don’t get better, such as filing a California Occupational Safety and Health Administration complaint, she said.

“We’re not kidding around,” Schnapper said.

Burris said CUSD’s first priority during this pandemic has been to keep district students, teachers, staff, and families safe.

“While we were one of the only districts in the state of California to open our classrooms in September and October, to date, according to the Orange County Health Care Agency, which

The Capistrano Unified Education Association has raised allegations of inadequate contact tracing and delayed notifications of positive COVID-19 cases on school campuses, against the Capistrano Unified School District.

Photo: Shawn Raymundo

reviews each case of COVID-19 connected to our schools, we have not experienced a single case of COVID-19 transmission in our schools,” Burris said.

Though transmissions have reportedly not spread on campuses, CUSD does track active cases of COVID-19 at schools, which can be seen on a publicly available dashboard.

Burris also pointed to the district following the California Department of Public Health’s guidelines, including keeping most student desks at least six feet apart as space allows, following all contact tracing protocols and submitting each case to the Orange County Health Care Agency, and following all notification timelines.

“Our record of health and safety speaks for itself,” Burris said. “Our Page 5

extraordinary teachers and staff have worked tirelessly to adapt to changing health and safety guidelines, the challenges of teaching in small cohorts, and teaching hybrid and online lessons.”

CUSD commits to its teachers and staff that the district will follow up and investigate any concern brought to their attention, and looks forward to working with CUEA to keep people safe, Burris said.

Asked what CUEA would like to see from CUSD in this situation, Schnapper said members want better communication with district officials and for concerns to be taken seriously.

“We’re asking for the basics to be followed, for the health and safety of our employees,” Schnapper said. danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

NEWS BITES COMPILED BY STAFF

DP | Capturing Strength

in Cancer Community Olivia Engelsman and Eden Feeley are hoping to cultivate an inspiring atmosphere for women living with cancer.

The goal, they say, is to capture their strength and humanity through their new pay-it-forward portrait business, Optimistic Expressions, in order to provide a newfound sense of self and confidence.

In early 2019, Feeley was diagnosed with Stage IV triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). With a prognosis of a year left to live, the San Clemente local closed her creative agency, ENthehouse, to receive full-time treatment.

According to the American Cancer Association, triple-negative breast cancer grows and spreads faster than other types of breast cancer, with limited types of treatment. Despite the odds stacked against her, Feeley is now in radical remission after almost two years of treatment.

While grappling with her diagnosis, Feeley had a photo session with Engelsman, a Dana Point resident, which became the catalyst for their new pay-itforward business.

Feeley’s experience as a marketing and art director, coupled with Engelsman’s experience as a hair and makeup artist and digital photographer, led them to venture into giving back to the cancer community.

“I think part of Optimistic Expressions is in the name; we are trying to bring an optimistic, loving feeling to these women that are living with cancer,” Feeley said.

Their photography session was so full of magic, Engelsman said, that they wanted to be able to share that feeling and create that kind of atmosphere for other women and their families. Thus, with every portrait session purchased, whether it be for a graduation or a wedding announcement, a session will be gifted to a woman living with cancer.

“When I look back on those pictures now, it really reminds me of how strong I am and what I went through,” Feeley said. “Capturing that moment is what I think we’re after.”

Engelsman added that, though everyone’s journey with cancer is unique, it’s a special moment that can be looked back upon during the fight to keep pushing or afterward to see how far they’ve come.

The two are hoping to fully launch their business in mid-March so that portraits can be done in time for Mother’s Day as gifts. For more information, visit their Instagram account @OptimisticExpressions.

—Zara Flores Dana Point Times February 26-March 4, 2021

Eden Feeley and her daughter, London Feeley, photographed a month after her diagnosis of Stage IV triple-negative breast cancer in March 2019. Photo: Courtesy of Optimistic Expressions

DP | COA Musicians to Per-

ous nonprofits. COA has teamed up with Partners for Wellness and the Wellness and Prevention Center, offering teens and young adults education and healthy options in efforts to stay above the influence of drugs and alcohol.

For more information on Community Outreach Alliance, visit communityoutreachalliance.com.

form for Festival of Whales The Community Outreach Alliance (COA) will be providing live music at this year’s Festival of Whales in Dana Point Harbor on Saturday and Sunday, March 6-7.

The majority of performers in the Harbor Music Series who will be providing live music are associated with the nonprofit Community Outreach Alliance (COA).

In the first weekend of the Festival of the Whales of 2020, live music was provided by COA Performers at the Dana Wharf Plaza and Art in the Park. But the COA Performers lined up for the second weekend were unable to perform, as the event was canceled due to COVID-19.

On Saturday, March 6, at Dana Wharf Plaza, Olivia Ooms will perform from noon to 1:30 p.m., and Gabby Neeley will perform from 1:30 to 3 p.m. At El Torito/ Harpoon Henry’s Plaza, Corey Angeli will perform from noon to 1:30 p.m., and Sage Escalante will perform from 1:30 to 3 p.m.

On Sunday, March 7, at Dana Wharf Plaza, Ava Domini will perform from noon to 1:30 p.m., and Bierman Brothers will perform from 1:30 to 3 p.m. At El Torito/Harpoon Henry’s Plaza, Noah Novick will perform from noon to 1:30 p.m., Grace & London Meredith will perform from 1 to 2 p.m., and Avery Brostrom will perform from 2 to 3 p.m.

In the past four years, COA performers have provided live music at more than 60 events in Orange County and approximately 30 COA events. COA’s Music Outreach program serves as a vehicle to educate the public by having a resource table with material from COA and vari-

DP | Vandalism of Mission San Juan Capistrano Under Investigation An overnight break-in at Mission San Juan Capistrano on Friday, Feb. 19, is being investigated, with Mechelle Lawrence Adams, the landmark’s executive director, alleging that eight individuals vandalized the historic site, forcing their way through doors and climbing on the grounds.

The incident reportedly occurred at 3:33 a.m. and, according to Adams, was caught on surveillance video, delaying the Mission from opening on time on Feb. 19. Adams declined to share further details of the vandalism.

The Orange County Sheriff’s Department confirmed that the incident is under investigation, saying it suspects the perpetrators are juveniles.

The apparent breaking and entering comes after the historic site recently dealt with the front entrance being vandalized in a separate incident. The Mission had recently reopened for a second time following a temporary closure forced by the most recent stay-at-home order throughout much of California.

Adams said while the past year has Page 6

COMMUNITY MEETINGS SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27

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.

TUESDAY, MARCH 2

DANA POINT CITY COUNCIL 6 p.m. The Dana Point City Council will hold its regularly scheduled meeting in council chambers at 33282 Golden Lantern, Suite 210, Dana Point.

been difficult, she believes staff and supporters of the Mission will get through it.

“Each of these occasions reminds us of the sturdiness of the Mission,” Adams said, saying Mission staff and supporters will do whatever is necessary to move forward. She also said the outpouring of support from the community after the latest incident is a reminder that the site means a lot to many people.

“These distractions do hurt our morale,” she said.

Adams asked people to respect the buildings and history of the Mission, saying everyone needs to be a caretaker for what can be considered the heartbeat of San Juan.

“Come and visit the Mission,” Adams said. danapointtimes.com

SOAPBOX

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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 Papagianis-Camacho 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 9. 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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Dana Point Times February 26-March 4, 2021

GUEST OPINION | Dana Point ROCKS by Anthony Small

RENAISSANCE-READY? WHALE YES! V ibrant arts and cultural activities have a vital and unique ability to build a more connected community and must be included in any plan for resilience and economic recovery from COVID-19.

Richard Stein, President & CEO of ArtsOC, the county’s officially designated local arts agency, shared these thoughts: “It’s not just artists, dancers, and musicians. The arts community creates jobs (90,000+) and generates economic revenue for skilled trades and independent contractors, as well as small businesses like suppliers and restaurants frequented by their audiences.”

Stein continued, “While the economic toll from job losses, canceled performances, and reduced support is certainly being felt across DANA POINT Orange County ROCKS and threatens the

BY ANTHONY SMALL future of the sector, I believe post-COVID, we will experience a real renaissance in the arts.”

The Renaissance in Italy began in 14th century Florence on the heels of “The Black Death,” a seven-year pandemic of bubonic plague.

“We are already seeing evidence of a 21st century arts renaissance through the resilient work of artists and our community amidst our current pandemic,” Stein said.“I

Letter to The Editor COUNCIL NOT LISTENING ELLIS KUPFERMAN, Dana Point This letter to the editor is in response to the short-term rental “advertorial” authored

by Jeff Rosaler, Community Development Manager of the City of Dana Point.

Mr. Rosaler’s advertorial once again fully demonstrates the city council of Dana Point is not listening to residents regarding STRs. Mr. Rosaler oversimplifies the history of STRs in Dana Point. His recount only underscores that a majority of residents do not want unrestricted STRs and will fight to keep them out of residential neighborhoods. Yet the city council continues to sell unrestricted STRs throughout Dana Point. And now they are spending taxpayer dollars on “advertorials” to push Page 7

also believe that the financial hardships experienced by many will be replaced by an economic resurgence for the creative sector due to pent-up demand—the hunger we all feel for what the arts deliver.”

Leading the way to recovery, by example, Supervisor Lisa Bartlett’s 5th District Small Business Relief grants now include nonprofits and arts-related businesses, and our own City of Dana Point Mayor Jamey Federico and City Council have recently directed the city’s Arts and Culture Commission to assist in Doheny Village beautification and public art efforts.

Dana Point Harbor, Chamber of Commerce and Festival of Whales organizers are ready to rock with live music, a virtual Splash Dash run, art fair and other activities for the 50th Anniversary Dana Point Festival of Whales.

The Festival of Whales Harbor Music Series will have safe, socially distanced live music at the Dana Wharf Plaza, El Torito/Harpoon Henry’s Plaza and near Coffee Importers on Saturday and Sunday, March 6-7, from noon to 3 p.m.

It will feature local musicians and many talented young artists from the nonprofit Community Outreach Alliance (COA).

Musical performances are one of COA’s healthy activities, and that ROCKS! For more info, visit communityoutreachalliance.com and on Instagram @coa.entertainment.

Art spaces including The Fish Tank are also doing their part to support local arts.

Thank you to The Fish Tank for all their

help with my video submission for Amanda Shires’“Our Problem” project, which is bringing awareness to women’s health issues and reproductive rights. For more info, find her Instagram @amandapearlshires or visit orcd.co/ourproblem.

The Fish Tank is a local multimedia venue that enables the community to come together and celebrate its creativity, heritage, and cultural achievements. Longtime Capistrano Beach business owner and resident Larry Robinson is excited about the possibilities. You can reach him at larry@barrettrobinson.com and learn more at fishtankcapo. com or on Instagram at @fishtankcapo.

Wendzelle, a pop recording artist originally from San Clemente, is also helping lead the community toward recovery.

Wendzelle has released a new single called “Make Up Your Mind,” with 50% of the profits from streams/sales going to benefit Laura’s House, the biggest domestic abuse shelter in Orange County. The single already has more than 25,000 streams. For more info, visit wendzelle.com or on Instagram at @wendzelle.

Anthony Small is the Executive Director of Music Preserves Foundation, a City of Dana Point Arts and Culture Commissioner and a singer-songwriter. Small and his family have lived in Dana Point for 23 years. DP

their agenda under the guise of city staff, who are supposed to remain neutral.

In his LTE a few weeks ago, Dana Point resident Steve Didier noted the city council could protect residential neighborhoods right now by at least banning STRs outside the Coastal Zone, where many of the existing 144 short-term rentals are located. Yet in his, or council’s, taxpayer-funded advertorial, Mr. Rosaler tries to justify why the California Coastal Commission should dictate STR policy outside the Coastal Zone. He then telegraphs exactly what is to come.

Mr. Rosaler suggests any future program will discourage absentee “corporate” ownership. Mr. Rosaler, and the city council, are playing with semantics here. They are not listening to residents who have stated loud and clear since 2016 that they do not want any form of absentee ownership … corporate, individual, partnership, or otherwise.

Read between the lines, people. Mr. Rosaler later states the city will “consider possibly allowing permits” for all forms of STRs in a “pilot program.” The city has decades of

experience with unrestricted STRs. The proposed “pilot program” is just another ruse to expand STRs before another referendum or ballot initiative prohibits them again.

Mr. Rosaler has made it abundantly clear that the city council wants all manner of STRs in residential neighborhoods, even outside the Coastal Zone. But, hey, maybe I’m wrong and the city council will at least limit their STR “pilot program” to the homestay model. But their history, and Mr. Rosaler’s propaganda, strongly suggest otherwise.

PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the DP Times provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the DP Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@danapointtimes.com.

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.

The Dana Point Times and Picket Fence Media do not publish content that is defamatory.

danapointtimes.com

GETTING OUT

The List What’s going on in and around town this week DANA POINT TIMES

FRIDAY | 26 DANA WHARF HALIBUT DERBY DAYS 7 a.m-4 p.m. Dana Wharf’s Halibut Derby Days will be every Friday and Sunday, on either the Clemente or Sum Fun, now through March 31. Participants may win cash and prizes for catching the largest halibut. Sign up today by calling 1.888.224.0603 or visiting danawharf.com.

Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching, 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point.

SATURDAY | 27 SOUTH OC CARS AND COFFEE 9-11 a.m. South OC Cars and Coffee,

AT THE MOVIES

‘I Care a Lot’ Cares About Dark Comedy Fans

BY MEGAN BIANCO, DANA POINT TIMES

I

remember when British actress Rosamund Pike broke through globally with David Fincher’s Gone Girl (2014). There were worries from film fans that the impressive, memorable performance would pigeon-hole Pike as a messed-up, crazy lady on screen. Fortunately for Pike, she hasn’t been typecast yet.

This week, movie lovers will see her revisit the villainous femme fatale type for the first time in almost seven years with J. Blakeson’s dark satire I Care a Lot, produced for Netflix.

Marla Grayson (Pike) is a successful, professional, full-time legal guardian for many

Dana Point Times February 26-March 4, 2021

dubbed the world’s biggest weekly car meet, attracts a mix of 500-1,000 hypercars, supercars, exotics, vintage, classic, muscle and sports cars, hot rods, rat rods, pickups, 4x4s and motorcycles. Those attending are encouraged to practice responsible social distancing. Face masks are not mandatory but are recommended. No cars in before 8:30 a.m. Cars should enter and leave slowly and quietly—no revving, speeding or burnouts.

The Outlets at San Clemente, 101 West Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente. southoccarsandcoffee.com.

MONDAY | 01 EGG-DECORATING CONTEST Be creative with some Easter Egg fun!

This contest is open to children up to 12 years of age. Use items from around your home or yard. You don’t even have to use real eggs; think outside the box. Use a plastic egg, find an egg-shaped rock, paper mache an egg, use playdough or clay, draw your egg, bake an egg-shaped cookie to decorate. Once you have completed your beautiful creation, send a photo to recreation@danapoint.org and include your name and age. All submittals need to be emailed by Monday, March 29. Winners will receive a special gift from the Easter Bunny.

Editor’s Pick Rep. Mike Levin. Photo: File

FRIDAY | 26 BLACK HISTORY MONTH EDUCATION FORUM 10:30 a.m. Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49) will host a virtual forum with local Black leaders in education to discuss inequity in schools and policies to ensure that all students receive a high-quality education regardless of their race, ethnicity or zip code. To participate in the forum, RSVP with Zoom by clicking the link in the online version of this post. mikelevin.house.gov.

WHALE OF A KID’S ART & LITERATURE CONTEST This contest is open to children of all ages. Submit a cute story, poem or art-

work themed about the California Gray Whale and email to recreation@danapoint.org. Submittals are due by Monday, March 22. Winning

elderly patients in nursing homes. What people don’t know is that she shamelessly scams and manipulates the law into letting her take responsibility of these senior citizens just so she can make money ripping off their inheritances.

Marla’s agenda is foolproof until her latest victim, Jennifer (Dianne Wiest), turns out to have a secret relative, Roman (Peter Dinklage), in the Russian mob.

Unlike Emerald Fennell’s own recent satire, Promising Young Woman, in which Carey Mulligan’s lead is punishing people who arguably deserve it, Blakeson’s I Care a Lot has no redeeming characters to be found.

Our protagonists are unethical frauds, and the antagonists are the mafia. Even by dark comedy standards, you’re wondering a lot during the first two acts why we should care what happens to Marla once she’s in trouble.

Interestingly, I have the same feelings with Blakeson’s film that I previously had with Fennell’s Promising Young Woman. Here we have another questionable narrative with a weak

entry will receive a gift card to Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching for a whale watching excursion and a whale/ocean-themed gift basket.

Photo: Courtesy of Seacia Pavao / Netflix

third act that is just barely saved by the last 30 seconds of the movie.

But everything technical and aesthetical in I Care a Lot is fine, and Pike is good. Depending

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on your tolerance for morally bankrupt characters, I Care a Lot is one of those decent new releases that is perfect for streaming at home during a free night. DP

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The Festival of Whales: The Grays are Golden

Welcome to 50 Annual Dana Point Festival of Whales th

2021 marks the 50th anniversary of the Dana Point Festival of Whales.

It’s such an honor to celebrate 50 years of our community’s rich heritage as a destination for whale watching.

Earlier this year, Dana Point became the first Whale Heritage Site in the U.S., a distinction it shares with Hervey Bay in Australia, the Bluff in South Africa and Tenerife-La Gomera Marine Area in Spain. A Whale Heritage Site recognizes outstanding destinations for responsible and sustainable whale and dolphin watching. I am proud of the work done by Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching

and Capt. Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari in helping to earn this important global recognition for Dana Point.

Simply put, our community takes great pride in its distinctive role in the migration of thousands of whales each winter season as they pass through Dana Point. We are excited to mark the occasion on March 6 and 7.

While this year’s Festival of Whales will be modified due to COVID-19 related restric-

tions, there are still many wonderful events planned in addition to whale watching. From the Splash Dash Virtual Run to art lessons, lectures and music, there will be something for everyone. I am especially looking forward to seeing Wally the Whale, and our staff from the City of Dana Point Recreation Division riding through Dana Point Harbor and handing out sea-life-themed crafts for kids on a specially decorated Under the Sea Trolley.

Join me in celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Festival of the Whales and in welcoming the gray whales back to the “Dolphin and Whale Watching Capital of the World®.”

— Mayor Jamey Federico

Festival of Whales Names 2021 50th Anniversary Logo Design Winner

1ST PLACE Lynlea Michaels, Irvine

BY LILLIAN BOYD ynlea Michaels wanted to capture the exhilaration one feels when they first lay eyes on a whale in the ocean.

She drew on her past whale watching experience, most recently in Hawaii, just ahead of the lockdown in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

“You feel this sense of freedom,” Michaels said. “Obviously, whales are not animals we get the privilege of interacting with very often. If you’re an animal lover, there’s this amazing feeling that comes when you see such an incredible being.”

Michaels, 32, used pencil, pen and Adobe Illustrator to design her submission for the Festival of Whales’ 50th anniversary logo contest. The festival’s foundation announced in February that Michaels is the winner, and her logo will become the official logo of the Festival of Whales’ golden anniversary cele-

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Dana Point Times February 26-March 4, 2021

2ND PLACE Matt Rinehart, San Clemente $100 and 2 whale watching tickets

3RD PLACE Gabriella Kohr, Dana Point $50 and 2 whale watching tickets

bration. This year’s event is set for March 6—a departure from the traditional two-weekend format, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

“For this design, I wanted to capture the energy of the ocean and the thrill of seeing such amazing animals playing and enjoying the California sun,” Michaels said. “The groovy text and mid-century colors give a nod to Dana Point’s history as a thriving surf community and the city’s eclectic vibes.”

Michaels’ design was the top vote-getter from among 72 entries in the January public online voting period.

Michaels, an Irvine resident, is a local designer and artist specializing in costume design and fashion illustration. She studied fashion and media in New York City before embarking on several years of world travel and exploration. Now back in Southern California, she is pursuing an advanced degree in

4TH PLACE Michael O’Connell, Clearwater, FL $50

Costume Design from The Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising.

Michaels’ win cements her place in the Dana Point Festival of Whales’ half-century-long history, placing her among a distinguished and talented group of logo designers including local amateur artists, Dana Hills High School art students and internationally known professional artists such as John Van Hamersveld and Wyland.

“I was really surprised and honored to learn I had won,” Michaels said. “There were a lot of entries that were awesome. I was thrilled. It’s such an honor to have my work shown in that capacity for such a prolific festival. I feel like I’m being part of history.”

The winning logo will appear on Festival of Whales 2021 promotional materials including logo merchandise, print and digital media advertising, the official event program, event signage and news media.

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BY ANDREA SWAYNE, EVENT COORDINATOR he celebration of a golden anniversary is a momentous occasion, no matter what the subject of the festivities. Here in Dana Point, a party for our beloved annual California gray whale migration is one such 50year tradition that must not be allowed to slip by unacknowledged because of this pandemic situation we humans have found ourselves in over the past year. How undignified it would be to let these majestic leviathans of the ocean, the largest animals alive on Earth, be forgotten. Will we have to make adjustments? Yes. Will we let it dampen our Dana Point spirit? No! After all, the whales choose to grace our shores on their 10,000-mile-plus roundtrip journey between the warm birthing and calving waters of Baja Mexico and the cold Arctic feeding waters of the Bering Sea, generation after generation.

This year’s Festival of Whales will not include many of the customary activities eventgoers have grown to know and love over the years, but the stars of the show are making their presence known and whale sightings have been increasing by the day. Boat capacity and COVID-19 protocols have been in place to provide safe and comfortable whale watching excursions throughout much of the past year, and many opportunities to see these magnificent creatures will be available during the Festival weekend and beyond. Virtual whale watching experiences have also been added to this year’s lineup, along with a number of other virtual experiences, such as lectures and replays of past years’ events. There will be some safely distanced live experiences at the Ocean Institute as well.

We have even added a few altogether new events this year. Among this year’s firsts is the Splash Dash 5K and Fun Run virtual race.

View a special welcoming and blessing of the whales with local surf legends and indigenous Acjachemen dignitaries in our Pod Cast series.

And pay a visit to downtown’s newest restaurant and brewery, Station Craft to try the Festival’s first official beer, Spyhopping, in a custom can featuring the Festival logo.

Be sure to shop the Dana Point Harbor merchants and enjoy the great restaurants, as many are offering grab-and-go options and al fresco dining that will allow you to enjoy some great live music while you eat.

Due to the added rigors of planning caused by the pandemic, visitors are encouraged to check the Festival website often for new events being added to the lineup daily. And don’t miss out on purchasing your commemorative 50th anniversary T-shirts, hoodies and lapel pins, available on-site near Dana Wharf Plaza.

Since 1971, when the Harbor was first being built and whale watching was just getting started, the Festival—founded by Don Hansen of Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching and the late Dana Point historian Doris Walker—has become more than a tradition. This springtime fete is part of our culture. And now it’s golden.

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Schedule of Events Saturday, March 6

DANA POINT HISTORICAL SOCIETY VIRTUAL TOUR

UNDER THE SEA TROLLEY WITH WALLY THE WHALE

9-9:45 a.m. Marine muralist Wyland continues the Landmark Whale and Dolphin Adventure “Art Lessons in the Wild,” facilitating the most creative experience on the water. Each child participant receives a free gift from Wyland with free coffee for the adults. Children will create their own work-of-art aboard one of the Dana Wharf vessels. Art will be judged by Wyland himself, with multiple winners and a grand prize winner. The grand prize is a special work of art by Wyland, framed and signed, called “A Living Sea” valued at $2,000. Visit festivalofwhales.com to book a reservation.

Tune in online for the Dana Point Historical Society’s annual historic town center Walking Tour. See and hear the stories of historic landmarks, S. H. Woodruff’s 1920s planned community and Bluff Top harbor views, c. 1818 to 1939, that represent the area’s early history.

The tour will include an interactive map, a video presentation of the route on YouTube and a web page that will contain the above resources along with additional artifacts.

Find the link at festivalofwhales. com on March 6, where it will be available throughout the month.

Wally the Whale and staff from the City of Dana Point Recreation Division will be riding on the decorated Under the Sea Trolley and making stops at different locations in Dana Point Harbor to hand out sea life-themed crafts for children to take home and be creative. The Under the Sea Trolley will stop at Dana Point Harbor Drive and Baby Beach from 9-9:45 a.m.; Dana Point Harbor Drive and Island Way from 10-10:45 a.m.; Dana Point Harbor Drive and Golden Lantern from 1111:45 a.m.; and Mariner’s Village walkway area by Harpoon Henry’s from noon to 12:45 p.m.

CAPT. DAVE’S VIRTUAL SAFARI 8 a.m. Can’t get out on the water?

Join Capt. Dave’s for a fun and educational virtual dolphin and whale watching safari. You’ll meet the magnificent whales and dolphins found off the coast of Dana Point, California, the Dolphin and Whale Watching Capital of the World® on a pre-recorded safari with live narration from our experienced marine wildlife naturalists. Find the Zoom link at festivalofwhales.com.

STORY TIME WITH NONA THE NATURALIST (DANA WHARF DOCK)

KIDS FISHING CLINIC AND TRIP (DANA WHARF DOCKS) 12:15-12:45 p.m.; 1-5:30 p.m. Dana Wharf Sportfishing invites all children to come to their dockside fishing clinic to learn hands-on techniques on fishing from the experts. Prizes will be raffled off at the end of the clinic. After the clinic Dana Wharf will be running a fishing trip from 1-5:30 p.m. Adults are $46 plus license and equipment, children 12 and under fish for free. An extra bonus is the chance of spotting whales, dolphins and other marine life. This trip includes equipment. For more information and reservations call Dana Wharf at 949.496.5794 ext. 7. Pre-registration is required.

THE POD CAST: VIRTUAL MARINE MAMMAL LECTURE SERIES

This special lecture series is perfect for those who want a one-on-one educational experience; marine biologists and guests present recent findings on local whales, dolphins and other marine mammals. Visit festivalofwhales.com for more information.

SPLASH DASH VIRTUAL 5K AND 1-MILE KIDS’ FUN RUN Come together by staying apart at this year’s Dana Point Festival of Whales Splash Dash Virtual Race. Register online for the 5K or Fun Run at rundanapoint.com. All FIN-ishers will receive a commemorative 50th Anniversary T-shirt and race medal. Pick-up your race items on Friday, March 5 from noon-6 p.m. (or have them shipped directly to you) in the Dana Point Harbor.

All proceeds from the Splash Dash benefit the Dana Point Festival of Dana Point Times February 26-March 4, 2021

Whales Foundation and Dana Point Chamber of Commerce.

DANA POINT FINE ARTS ASSOCIATION SHOW & SALE 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Art will be on display at the Harbor Boardwalk along the boat docks in Mariner’s Village on the east side of the Coffee Importers Espresso Bar and Harpoon Henry’s restaurant.

Watercolor, oil, acrylic, colored pencil, pastels and photography by many award-winning local artists will be available for purchase. Dana Point Fine Arts annually donates a portion of the proceeds from the show to Dana Hills High School Art Department. For more info on this exhibit, visit danapointfinearts.org.

HARBOR MUSIC SERIES Noon-3 p.m.

The Harbor Music Series is presented by the Dana Point Festival of Whales Foundation in the Dana

Wharf Courtyard, Mariner’s Village plaza area in front of Harpoon Henry’s and El Torito, and along the Harbor Walkway in front of Coffee Importers. Enjoy a variety of musical styles and sounds.

OCEAN INSTITUTE ACTIVITIES SCHEDULE 9:30 a.m. Marine Mammal Lecture and Exhibit 10 a.m. Marine Mammal Cruise departs.

The 65-foot research vessel, Sea Explorer, is an educational floating lab equipped with underwater cameras, an acoustic hydrophone, onboard computers, video microscopes, touch tanks, and a viewing aquarium. A bowsprit over the water provides any passenger with a breathtaking view of dolphins, whales and sea lions.

10 a.m. Kayak Tour Check-in 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Whale Experiments on the Wharf Whale Experiments on the Wharf Page 12

8 a.m.-4 p.m. Use promo code FOW21 save $10 off all tickets, excludes special pricing at 4 p.m. For reservations call 1.888.224.0603 or visit danawharf.com.

CAPT. DAVE’S DOLPHIN & WHALE WATCHING SAFARI 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Reservations, schedule, and information: 949.488.2828 or visit dolphinsafari.com.

OCEAN INSTITUTE 10 a.m.-2 p.m. For more information or reservations, please visit oceaninstitute.org or call 949.496.2274.

WHALE WATCH FROM LAND

9-9:45 a.m. Dana Wharf Whale Watching will host “Story Time with Nona The Naturalist” aboard a docked Dana Wharf vessel, and virtually via Facebook Live. Nona Reimer, a retired Master Teacher and science mentor known as “Nona The Naturalist,” will be reading her favorite children’s book on a Dana Wharf Whale Watching vessel while it is docked. Kids will be treated to a fun craft time after the story. Story time is limited to 15 children and one parent. The cost is $8 per child. Book your tickets today at danawharf.com/ whale-watching/story-time-with-nona-the-naturalist or call 949.496.5794.

Both Days of Festival

Both Days of Festival and Beyond

DANA WHARF WHALE WATCHING

WYLAND ART LESSONS IN THE WILD (OCEAN ADVENTURE)

Sunday, March 7

Whale Watching

will allow for 25 spaces per time slot.

Tickets $10 per person. Visit festivalofwhales.com or oceaninstitute.org for more information on the various experiments.

12:30 p.m. Marine Mammal Lecture and Exhibit 1 p.m. Marine Mammal Cruise 1:30 p.m. History of Whaling in Orange County (for guests of Spirit of Dana Point Sail) 2 p.m. Spirit of Dana Point Tall Ship Sail.

Set sail aboard the schooner Spirit of Dana Point and experience California from the perspective of an early tall ship explorer. Join the crew to help raise sail, handle lines, and steer the ship, or simply sit back, relax and enjoy the majesty of sailing the seas aboard a tall ship. Members receive a 10% discount. Sign up in advance here as space is limited. Walk-ins will only be allowed when space is available.

8 a.m.-4 p.m. During this peak season, 40-50 whales pass by Dana Point each day, using the Dana Point Headland’s 200-foot cliffs near the harbor as a landmark to check their migration path. Enjoy bluff-top viewing from the Headlands Nature Reserve.

All Month Long

Events offered by City of Dana Point

WHALE OF A YOUTH ART & LITERATURE CONTEST Open to children of all ages. Submit a cute story, poem or artwork themed on the California Gray Whale and email to recreation@ danapoint.org. Submittals are due by March 22. The winning entry will receive a gift card to Dana Wharf Sport Fishing & Whale Watching for a whale watching excursion and a whale/ ocean themed gift basket.

WHALE TAIL SCAVENGER HUNT Beginning March 6, embark on a fun scavenger hunt to find 10 decorative wooden whale tails hidden throughout the Dana Point Harbor area. Share a photo of your sighting on social media with the hashtags #DPRecWhaleTailSighting and #festivalofwhales to enter for a chance to win a whale watching trip for a family of four, and a $300 gift card to local Dana Point businesses. Find all 10 whale tails, take a photo standing by each, and email all 10 whale tail photos to recreation@danapoint.org by March 31.

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HARBOR MAP (0.5)

Dana Point Times February 26-March 4, 2021

Parking Information

Parking at Doheny State Beach is $3 per hour ($6 minimum/$15 maximum) at the numerous automated payment machine kiosks located throughout the park, or better yet through the Passport Parking app available for smartphones and tablets at ppprk.com/park. The benefit of the Passport Parking payment application is, in addition to making the initial payment for parking, time can also be added remotely from your phone or tablet. Free parking is available in and around the Harbor, along with paid ($3 per hour/$6 min./$15 max.) parking.

Map & Parking (no shuttle service)

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danapointtimes.com

Dana Point Awarded Whale Heritage Site by World Cetacean Alliance

BY LILLIAN BOYD ana Point is officially the first Whale Heritage Site in the Americas, as established by the World Cetacean Alliance (WCA), the world’s largest marine conservation partnership, The WCA is an organization that promotes safe and sustainable whale watching. A Whale Heritage Site is defined by the WCA as “an outstanding location where cetaceans (whales, dolphins, or porpoises) are embraced through the cultural, economic, social, and political lives of associated communities, and where people and cetaceans coexist in an authentic and respectful way.”

Donna Kalez and Gisele Anderson, co-directors of the Dana Point Whale Watching Company, began the application process early in 2020 after successfully trademarking Dana Point as the Dolphin & Whale Watching Capital of the World in 2019. Kalez is the general manager of Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching, and Anderson operates Capt.

Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari with husband Dave Anderson.

“To have Dana Point recognized as a Whale Heritage Site is a dream and has been a goal of mine for some time,” Kalez said. “Dana Point has historically been an incredible destination

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Dana Point Times February 26-March 4, 2021

to watch and learn about whales and dolphins, and now we are happy to share this with the world.”

Kalez says the criteria for acceptance are incredibly challenging, focusing on protection, sustainability, education, research, public access and awareness, as well as requiring a community effort that furthers the purpose of a Whale Heritage Site.

“Being the first Whale Heritage Site in the Americas is an amazing accomplishment and serves to further recognize Dana Point and (give) the whales and dolphins that live and visit here the recognition they deserve, as well send a message to the world that Dana Point is also a place that protects and responsibly watches cetaceans,” Anderson said.

Both Kalez and Anderson credit the Dana Point Harbor Partners (DPHP), the harbor’s management company tasked with revitalization, for supporting their efforts to secure Dana Point as a Whale Heritage Site.

“We are ecstatic that Dana Point has been named the Americas’ only Whale Heritage Site,” said Bryon Ward, Partner of DPHP, and President of Burnham-Ward Properties.

“Marine education and specifically whale and dolphin watching is a key pillar of the Harbor’s history and future. This exciting recognition is a testament to our highly experienced whale

watching operators.”

In 2020, Dana Point was one of eight candidate destinations from around the world. The World Cetacean Alliance states that each site is unique, providing and contributing in different ways to the criteria for becoming certified. Kalez says that Whale Heritage Sites give tourists a transparent and easy way to select responsible whale and dolphin watching destinations, encouraging them to experience these incredible animals in their natural habitat, in an authentic and respectful way.

“To celebrate the abundance and diversity of these magnificent creatures in our local waters, we are currently consulting with marine biologists and artists to create educational exhibits and whale-related public art installations within the Harbor,” Ward said.

“As we further revitalize the Harbor in the coming years, we will instill the importance of education, conservation, and viewing whales in their natural habitat.”

Elizabeth Cuevas is the Whale Heritage Sites Manager at World Cetacean Alliance.

She says the Whale Heritage Site designation is the first step forward in responsible tourism.

“This site is of global significance as a place that has developed responsible whale and

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Donna Kalez and Gisele Anderson, co-directors of the Dana Point Whale Watching Company, applied for Dana Point to be designated a Whale Heritage Site in early 2020.

Photo: Courtesy of Donna Kalez

dolphin watching practices, while encouraging local people and visiting tourists to celebrate the importance of whales and marine conservation,” Cuevas aid. “The Dana Point community has set a gold standard that other whale watching sites can learn from.”

To learn more about the Whale Heritage Sites, go to whaleheritagesites.org/sites or worldcetaceanalliance.org.

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DP LIVING

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

PERSEVERANCE AND SENIOR LOVE I

first wrote about San Clemente resident Chris Anastasio and his girlfriend, Tina, in 2009. The story of how they met was included in a book titled How 50 Couples Found Love After 50, which I wrote.

What made their relationship so remarkable was the mileage between them—5,419 miles between San Clemente and England, where Tina lived.

Chris was divorced three years and Tina widowed 18 months when they met in 2004 on a cruise ship where Chris was a dance host and Tina a passenger.

Chris said, “I have danced with a lot of women over the years, but when I danced with Tina, I knew there was something special about her that I liked.”

After the cruise, they started corresponding and then visiting each other and taking trips together. Their long-distance relationship endured for 13 years.

Tina said, “During our years of being a couple, we’ve had to say a lot of goodbyes. Those times were the hardest.”

On Feb. 12, 2017, Chris and Tina married at the Dana Point Yacht Club.

My partner, Greta, and I attended the wedding.

However, their being-apart times were not entirely behind them. Tina still had to return to England from time to time, because she was not eligible to permanently stay in the U.S. A month after their wedding, Chris and Tina started ON LIFE AND LOVE the legal process of

BY TOM BLAKE securing a two-year, temporary Green Card for Tina, so she wouldn’t have to leave the country so often.

A year later, Chris emailed: “After jumping through all kinds of hoops last year, we finally had Tina’s Green Card hearing today. It was the last step in the process.

Chris and Tina Anastasio hold their wedding ceremony at the Dana Point Yacht Club on Feb. 12, 2017. Photo: Tom Blake

Dana Point Times February 26-March 4, 2021

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

“During the interview, I mentioned that we had become kind of famous because of our long-distance relationship.

I said we were featured in your book, and handed it to him, with our page bookmarked.

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

“It was amazing. That’s all he looked at. We were out of there in less than 30 minutes. You had a hand (and a big hand at that) in getting Tina her Green Card.”

In 2020, Chris emailed an update: “Tina’s two-year Green Card expires soon.

So, we must go back in and apply for her 10-year Green Card, also known as a Permanent Resident Card. Is it OK if we carry the How 50 Couples Found Love After 50 book to the government office again? It brought us great luck two years ago.”

My reply: “Of course. Let me provide you with a fresh copy. Hopefully, it will help you get Tina’s Permanent Resident Card.”

On Feb. 19, Chris emailed: “Last year’s hearing was supposed to take place in six months. Because of the pandemic, the hearing kept getting delayed. It has been over a year and a half that Tina has been waiting with bated breath, dreading the next hearing.

“Yesterday, Tina received a letter from the Department of Homeland Security that started with ‘CONGRATULATIONS. Because of the information received, you have been granted your Permanent Green Card.’

“With the help of your book and letter of introduction, Tina has received her Green Card. Our thanks for your help.

“Although Tina loves living here in America, she said she has no desire of becoming a citizen. She likes being called ‘an English Lady.’”

Chris is now 87, and Tina 80. Their story proves that despite challenges, people can find love later in life.

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, the DP Times provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the DP Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@danapointtimes.com.

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Sudoku

BY MYLES MELLOR

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION:

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

To solve the puzzle, each row, column and box must contain each of the numbers 1 to 9. Puzzles come in three grades: easy, medium and difficult.

Level: Medium

See the solution in next week’s issue.

ADOPTABLE PET OF THE WEEK

Kyle

Photo: Courtesy of San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter

DANA POINT TIMES

A

re you looking for a friendly feline companion? Look no further than Kyle, a 2-year-old neutered male looking for his forever family. An all-around great cat, Kyle is both outgoing and affectionate.

He loves to play and even gets along well with most other cats. You can’t go wrong with a sweet guy like Kyle.

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

Completed forms can be emailed to animalservices@scdpanimalshelter.org, and you will be contacted about making an interaction appointment. DP

danapointtimes.com

PUBLIC NOTICES TO ADVERTISE: 949.388.7700, EXT. 111 • LEGALS@PICKETFENCEMEDIA.COM PUBLIC NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE CITY OF DANA POINT NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on February 16, 2021, the City Council of the City of Dana Point adopted Ordinance 21-01 entitled: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DANA POINT, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING CHAPTER 5.42 OF THE DANA POINT MUNICIPAL CODE The proposed ordinance establishes a Small Wireless Facility (“SWF”) permit, and sets forth definitions, permitting requirements and application processes for Small Wireless Facilities within the public right-of-way (“PROW”) in the City, including reasonable, uniform and objective aesthetic standards.

The adopted Ordinance is available for viewing in the City Clerk’s office located at 33282 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, California.

This adopted Ordinance was introduced by the City Council of the City of Dana Point, California, at a regular meeting thereof held on the 2nd day of February 2021, and adopted at a regular meeting thereof held on the 16th day of February, 2021, by the following vote: AYES:

NOES:

ouncil Member Mike Frost, Council C Member Richard A. Viczorek, Council Member Michael Villar, Mayor Pro Tem Joseph L. Muller, and Mayor Jamey M. Federico None

ABSENT: None KATHY M. WARD CITY CLERK Dated this 26th day of February, 2021.

PUBLIC NOTICE CITY OF DANA POINT NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT a public hearing will be held by the Planning Commission of the City of Dana Point to consider the following: Coastal Development Permit CDP20-0022, Site Development Permit SDP20-0021 and Conditional Use Permit CUP21-0003: A request to allow the addition of 328 square foot addition and remodel to the historic house and a 354 square foot addition to the detached non-historic garage for a second story studio. The project would expand the house to 3448 square feet and the garage and studio to 934 square feet. The project is located in the Dana Point Specific Plan within the Coastal Medium Density Residential (C-RMD) zone and in City’s Coastal Overlay District (the California Coastal Zone) and the Appeals Jurisdiction of the California Coastal Commission at 24721 El Camino Capistrano.

Project Number: CDP20-0022, SDP20-0021, CUP21-0003 Project Location: 24721 El Camino Capistrano (APN 682-202-09) Applicant: Ross and Ellendea Teasley Environmental: The project is Categorically

Exempt from the provisions

set forth in the California

Environmental Quality Act

(CEQA) per Section 15301 Dana Point Times February 26-March 4, 2021

(Class 1 – Existing Facilities)

and Section 15331 (Class 31 Historical Resource Restoration/Rehabilitation).

Hearing Date: Monday, March 8, 2021 Hearing Time: 6:00 PM (or as soon

thereafter as possible) Hearing Location: 33282 Golden Lantern,

Dana Point, CA 92629

(Dana Point City Hall) All persons either favoring or opposing the subject project are invited to present their views to the Commission at this hearing.

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

For further information, please contact John Ciampa at the City of Dana Point, Community Development Department, 33282 Golden Lantern, Suite 209, Dana Point, (949) 248-3591.

PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20216594172 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: PLATESHUB 1052 SABLE RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA, CA 92688-9268 Full Name of Registrant(s): JOSEPH A CRAPANZANO 1052 SABLE RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA, CA 92688 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/ JOSEPH CRAPANZANO This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 01/21/2021.

Published in: Dana Point Times Feb 19, 26, Mar 5, 12, 2021 PUBLIC NOTICE Order to Show Cause For Change of Name Case No. 30-2021-01182707 To All Interested Persons: Tyler Thomas Freeman; filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME A. Tyler Thomas Freeman PROPOSED NAME A. Tyler Thomas Dalton 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: 04/08/2021 Time: 08:30 a.m. Dept.: D100 Window: 44. The address of the court is Central Justice Center, Civil Department, 700 Civic Center Drive West, Santa Ana, CA 92701. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: Dana Point Times Date: February 4, 2021 JUDGE LAYNE H. MELZER, Judge of the Superior Court Published: Dana Point Times, February 19, 26, March 5, 12, 2021 PUBLIC NOTICE SUMMONS (CITACION JUDICIAL) NOTICE TO DEFENDANT: (AVISO AL DEMANDADO): NICKOLAS ONEAL, also known as Nickolas Martin Oneal, an individual YOU ARE BEING SUED BY PLAINTIFF: (LO ESTA DEMANDANDO EL DEMANDANTE): APPLIED MEDICAL RESOURCES CORPORATION NOTICE! You have been sued. The court may decide against you without your being heard unless you respond within 30 days. Read the information below.

You have 30 CALENDAR DAYS after this summons and legal papers are served on you to file a written response at this court and have a copy served on the plaintiff. A letter or phone call will not protect you. Your written response must be in proper legal form if you want the court to hear your case. There may be a court form that you can use for your response. You can find these court forms and more information at the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www.courtinfo.ca.gov/ selfhelp), your county law library, or the courthouse nearest you. If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the court clerk for a fee waiver form. If you do not file your response on time, you may lose the case by default, and your wages, money, and property may be taken without further warning from the court.

There are other legal requirements. You may want to call an attorney right away. If you do not know an attorney, you may want to call an attorney referral service. If you cannot afford an attorney, you may be eligible for free legal services from a nonprofit legal services program. You can locate these nonprofit groups at the California Legal Services Web site (www.lawhelpcalifornia.org), the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www. courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp), or by contacting your local court or county bar association. NOTE: The court has a statutory lien for waived fees and costs on any settlement or arbitration award of $10,000 or more in a civil case. The court’s lien must be paid before the court will dismiss the case.

¡AVISO! Lo han demandado. Si no responde dentro de 30 días, la corte puede decidir en su contra sin escuchar su versión. Lea la información a continuación.

Tiene 30 DÍAS DE CALENDARIO después de que le entreguen esta citación y papeles legales para presentar una respuesta por escrito en esta corte y hacer que se entregue una copia al demandante. Una carta o una llamada telefónica no lo protegen. Su respuesta por escrito tiene que estar en formato legal

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correcto si desea que procesen su caso en la corte.

Es posible que haya un formulario que usted pueda usar para su respuesta. Puede encontrar estos formularios de la corte y más información en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California (www.sucorte. ca.gov), en la biblioteca de leyes de su condado o en la corte que le quede más cerca. Si no puede pagar la cuota de presentación, pida al secretario de la corte que le dé un formulario de exención de pago de cuotas. Si no presenta su respuesta a tiempo, puede perder el caso por incumplimiento y la corte le podrá quitar su sueldo, dinero y bienes sin más advertencia.

Hay otros requisitos legales. Es recomendable que llame a un abogado inmediatamente. Si no conoce a un abogado, puede llamar a un servicio de remisión a abogados. Si no puede pagar a un abogado, es posible que cumpla con los requisitos para obtener servicios legales gratuitos de un programa de servicios legales sin fines de lucro. Puede encontrar estos grupos sin fines de lucro en el sitio web de California Legal Services, (www.lawhelpcalifornia.org), en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California, (www. sucorte.ca.gov) o poniéndose en contacto con la corte o el colegio de abogados locales. AVISO: Por ley, la corte tiene derecho a reclamar las cuotas y los costos exentos por imponer un gravamen sobre cualquier recuperación de $10,000 ó más de valor recibida mediante un acuerdo o una concesión de arbitraje en un caso de derecho civil. Tiene que pagar el gravamen de la corte antes de que la corte pueda desechar el caso.

CASE NUMBER: (Numero del Caso): 30-2019-01105052-CL-CL-CJC The name and address of the court is: (El Nombre y direccion de la corte es): Superior Court of the State of California, County of Orange – Limited Civil Jurisdiction 700 Civic Center Drive West, Santa Ana, CA 92701 The name, address and telephone number of plaintiff ’s attorney, or plaintiff without an attorney, is: (El nombre, la direccion y el numero de telefono del obogado del demandante, o del demandante que no tiene abogado, es): William J. Brown, Jr. (SBN 192950), Alexander Avery (SBN 307390); BROWN WEGNER LLP 2010 Main Street, Suite 1260, Irvine, California 92614 Telephone 949.705.0080 DATE: (Fecha) 10/15/2019 David H. Yamasaki, Clerk of the Court, by (Secretario) Brenda Sanchez, Deputy (Adjunto) Published: Dana Point Times February 12, 19, 26, March 5, 2021 PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20216595104 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: THE STUDENT-ATHLETE ADVISORS 24702 PRISCILLA DRIVE DANA POINT, CA 92629 Full Name of Registrant(s): KATHERINE ANDERSEN 24702 PRISCILLA DRIVE DANA POINT, CA 92629 This business is conducted by an Individual.

The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 01/30/2019 /s/ KATHERINE ANDERSEN This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 02/01/2021.

Published in: Dana Point Times February 12, 19, 26, March 5, 2021

danapointtimes.com

PUBLIC NOTICES TO ADVERTISE: 949.388.7700, EXT. 111 • LEGALS@PICKETFENCEMEDIA.COM PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20216593525 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: LAGUNA BREEZE CLEANING 34824 CALLE DEL SOL CAPISTRANO BEACH, CA 92624-9262 Full Name of Registrant(s): SUZANNE ELIZABETH SAKACH 34824 CALLE DEL SOL 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: 05/01/2014 /s/ SUZANNE SAKACH This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 01/13/2021.

Published in: Dana Point Times February 5, 12, 19, 26, 2021

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

EMAIL legals@picketfencemedia.com CALL 949.388.7700, ext. 111

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, bodymindspiritiop.com ATTORNEY

Rosen Law Offices, P.C. 34118 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 5, Dana Point, 949.335.0020, snrosenlaw.com

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

AUTO REPAIR

Dana Point Auto 34342 Coast Hwy., Unit B, 949.496.1086

ICE CREAM

Coffee Importers Espresso Bar 34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, coffeeimporters.com

Dana Point Times February 26-March 4, 2021

INSURANCE SERVICES

State Farm/Elaine LaVine 34080 Golden Lantern, 949.240.8944, elainelavine.net

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

Want to be featured here?

Call Karen Banse at 949.244.1560

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danapointtimes.com

CLASSIFIEDS

DP BUSINESS DIRECTORY

DSaan n Cl a em Poenintet

Submit your classified ad online at danapointtimes.com FOR RENT CAPO BEACH ROOM FOR RENT - $800 $800. Includes cable, internet, Parking.

No pets/smoking. Laundry available. 949-661-5879

GARAGE SALES GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! E-mail your garage sale to info@danapointtimes.com DEADLINE 12PM MONDAY. NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE. GARAGE & PLANT SALE - SATURDAY, FEB. 27 Saturday, February 27, 8-11AM. Lots of household and decorative items plus furniture, no junk! Terracotta pots filled with large succulents and some tools too. 34626 Camino Capistrano, Capo Beach ESTATE SALE - SUNDAY, FEB. 28 Sunday, February 28, 2021. 8:30 AM-12:30PM 26000 Avenida Aeropuerto, Spc 210, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675. Items include furniture, china, glass, home decor and more.

HUGE GARAGE SALE - SATURDAY, FEB. 27 Don’t Miss this One…TONS of Great Stuff. Computer Gear, Furniture, Kitchen Items, TV ect. Saturday Feb 27th 8AM Start. 27062 Via Cocida, SJC, CA 92675

HELP WANTED 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

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE LIST LOCALS ONLY USE LOCALS ONLY

Contact Lauralyn Loynes at 949.388.7700 ext. 102 or lloynes@picketfencemedia.com

In print and online 52 weeks a year. View online at danapointtimes.com Contact Lauralyn Loynes at 949.388.7700 ext. 102 or lloynes@picketfencemedia.com

Dana Point Times February 26-March 4, 2021

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SPORTS & OUTDOORS

Green Light: Football, Water Polo, Multiple HS Sports Can Start Seasons Football, water polo will initially require weekly COVID-19 testing

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, DANA POINT TIMES

T

he “scoreboard” watching is over in Orange County, as sports teams and organizations across the area got the number they needed on Tuesday, Feb. 23.

Outdoor sports are back on in Orange County, after the county’s new case rate per 100,000 residents dropped below 14 to 11.9 in the state’s weekly coronavirus tier update. New state guidelines announced on Friday, Feb. 19, set the 14-per100,000 benchmark to return to play.

Despite staying in the highest risk purple “widespread” tier, Orange County’s coronavirus metrics continued to improve overall, with the testing positivity dropping to 5.4% from 7.8% and the health equity positivity rate dropping to 7.0% from 10.7%. Both of those numbers are down to red “substantial” risk levels.

Pending county and school district approvals, high school football and water polo teams can finally begin their twice-delayed seasons as early as Feb. 26, and the outdoor spring sports of soccer, lacrosse, baseball, softball and cheerleading can all go off as scheduled next month.

Friday’s new sports guidelines did not completely wipe out the previous guidelines that slotted each sport in one of the state’s four color-coded coronavirus monitoring tiers based on level of risk, as determined by indoor or outdoor venues and the amount of contact in each sport.

The sports are still assigned to tiers, but with the case rate threshold now in place, the tiers only affect indoor sports, which remain in the orange “moderate” risk and yellow “minimal” risk tiers.

The guidelines apply across the board to youth and adult sports, either organized or recreational.

Of the CIF-SS’ high school fall or “Season 1” sports, cross country was the first and only sport allowed to compete in the purple tier and has been since Jan. 25, when the regional stay-at-home orders were lifted across the state. Girls tennis was the first spring or “Season 2” sport to open action on Monday, Feb. 22, and can now play doubles matches under the new guidelines.

However, the spotlight now shines on high school’s big-ticket sport: football.

“I’m so excited, man,” Dana Hills football coach Phil Skinner said. “We’re

Dana Point Times February 26-March 4, 2021

After having their seasons delayed twice due to state guidance and stay-at-home orders, high school football and water polo can return to play this month with updated guidance and improving coronavirus numbers. Photo: Alan Gibby/Zone57

thrilled. It’s been a year and a half since we played football. Who would’ve known?”

Football has two special stipulations for its return. First, like water polo and rugby, the state’s new guidelines require weekly COVID-19 tests for all football coaches and players, with results provided within 24 hours of competition.

The state said it will cover the cost of the testing, making it free for the schools and teams. The state and CIF-SS did not lay out any protocols for positive tests or game cancellations, with CIF-SS saying those decisions would be for districts and individual schools.

“It is what it is,” Skinner said. “We’re just happy to have an opportunity to play. Kids may get dressed on the field instead of the locker room. There will be no buses. It’s all stuff we’re going to have to deal with.”

The testing requirement could go away

if the county’s new case rate per 100,000 residents goes below 7.

Secondly, CIF-SS rules require 14 days of full practice before football games can be played and 10 days before a scrimmage against another team can be held. So, whereas water polo could start immediately on Feb. 26 if the proper approvals come through, there will still be two weeks of headway before football can officially start. With CIF-SS’ official end date for football season on April 17, every day counts in terms of the length of the season.

Dana Hills football is beginning its first year in the Pacific Coast Conference and will set its schedule in the coming days. In the Pacific Coast Conference, Dana Hills will be joined by Laguna Hills—which is leaving the Coast View Conference in all sports—and a lineup of six Irvine teams, including Beckman, Irvine, Northwood, Portola, University

Page 21

and Woodbridge. The conference, which was just a six-team league last season, will be broken into four-team leagues for football. Dana Hills is grouped with Laguna Hills, Portola and Northwood.

All of the other Dana Hills sports remain in the South Coast and Sea View Leagues.

For the rest of the outdoor high school sports, the start dates will trickle out over the next month.

Dana Hills water polo will play a South Coast League-only schedule from March 8 to March 20. Soccer teams can open their seasons on Saturday, Feb. 27; boys tennis on Monday, March 1; lacrosse on March 12; swimming on March 13; baseball and softball on March 19; and golf and boys track and field on March 20.

The indoor sports—volleyball, basketball and wrestling—did not receive any updates and remain in their holding patterns. DP danapointtimes.com

DP SURF

Let’s Surf with a Little More Aloha

cally reduced, a lot of people have taken up surfing during the pandemic. That means there are a lot of newbies in the water who may not be totally comfortable paddling out when there’s a decent swell running. So, heads up to anybody who may be concerned about getting in a little over your head: hold on to your board. If you let go of your board in the open face of a wave, know that it can become an obstacle for somebody trying to ride the wave. And ditching your board in the whitewater puts other surfers paddling out in jeopardy.

With lineups more crowded than ever, surfing etiquette more important than ever

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

L

ast week in Manhattan Beach, an incident took place in which a White surfer was filmed yelling obscenities and racial epithets at a Black surfer in the water. This prompted a response on Sunday that was dubbed the “Black Sand Peace Paddle.”

With dozens of surfers in attendance from around Southern California, the statement was clear: there is no place for racism of any kind in our lineups.

Also last week, things reportedly got a little testy at one of our local breaks—namely, Trestles. A salty older gentleman, who shall remain nameless here but is a prominent business owner in the area, decided that it would be a good call to resurrect the old localism nonsense that we thought, as a surf community, we’d put in the past.

Clearly, we haven’t, as this individual tried to provoke a fight under the farcical

A smile and a shaka, the reason for it all—surf and be happy. Photo: Courtesy of the Positive Vibes Warrior Foundation

busy intersection, so why drop in on somebody who’s already rolling down the line?

notion that because he surfs Uppers regularly, he deserves all the best waves and is somehow entitled to “regulate” the break.

So, with all that negative energy percolating, and more surfers in the water than ever before, I figured this week would be a good opportunity to refresh some of surfing’s guiding principles.

For what it’s worth, here are five ways that we can all get along in the water— and still get a few quality set waves: NO DROPPING IN If you want to get in a tussle while you’re surfing, a blatant burn is a great way to initiate it. If somebody is already up and riding on a wave, do not take off in front of them. You wouldn’t pull your car out into a

WHO GETS THE RIGHT OF WAY? As far as who has priority when you’re in a pack of surfers all paddling for the same wave, the time-tested rule is that the surfer closest to the apex of the peak gets the wave. This doesn’t mean you can’t paddle for it and give it a look; you never know, the person in the pole position could pull back or wipe out when they take off, in which case the wave would be fair game if you’re next in line.

DON’T DITCH YOUR BOARD With youth sports largely halted at the moment and access to gyms drasti-

PEETA KENWORTHY

Water Temperature: 56-58 Degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: 4-7

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

Y

Dana Point Times February 26-March 4, 2021

SPREAD THE ALOHA The great Duke Kahanamoku said it best: “In Hawaii, we greet friends, loved ones or strangers with ‘Aloha,’ which means love. Aloha is the key word to the universal spirit of real hospitality, which makes Hawaii renowned as the world’s center of understanding and fellowship.

Try meeting or leaving people with ‘Aloha.’ You’ll be surprised by their reaction.

I believe it, and it is my creed. Aloha to you.” DP

SURF FORECAST

GROM OF THE WEEK

ou only get one chance to win your first surf contest, and Peeta Kenworthy just nailed it!

Celebrating the restart of the Western Surfing Association after a long pandemic break, the 7-year-old from San Clemente aced her first contest.

“I was hoping that she would make a few friends, and try her best and not take losing too hard,” explained her father, Jason Kenworthy, who was in the water with Peeta pushing her into some pumping waves.

“She and her good friend Ty-Ty both made the final, and they were having a good time talking and playing as they got ready,” Jason continued. “I was stoked that she tried her hardest, and that we had a really fun time. The awards came after, and sure enough, the two friends came in first and second just like they

SHARING IS CARING This may come as a huge surprise to a lot of local surfers, but waves are free, and there’s always another one. Don’t be greedy; if you’ve gotten a couple good ones already, make sure that somebody else has the opportunity to share in the joy. Whether it’s a grom or somebody who’s just figuring the sport out, don’t be afraid to give a wave or two. Often, when you do give a wave, there’s an even better one behind it, so everyone wins.

Peeta Kenworthy. Photo: Courtesy of the Kenworthy Family

talked about … she’s already asking, ‘When’s the next one?’”

Peeta is the youngest of five kids, with her oldest sister, Bella, making regular appearances here in the Grom of the Week column. Bella is both an accomplished surfer and skateboarder who has

picked up the support of iconic footwear brand Vans.

No doubt, this won’t be Peeta’s last competitive accomplishment, but nevertheless, there really is nothing better than earning that first trophy—especially when you’re in a heat with your best buddy. DP Page 22

Outlook: The South and Northwest swell mix eases for knee to waist high waves, (2-3’), on Friday. Light/ variable winds Friday morning turn to light+ afternoon onshores.

Fresh pulse of Northwest swell rolls in Saturday with waist to stomach high surf, (2-3’+), then on Sunday those waves ease to knee-thighwaist high, (1-2-3’). Mainly light+ SW winds for Saturday. Light+ offshore wind Sunday morning is followed by moderate afternoon onshores.

danapointtimes.com

Dana Point Times February 26-March 4, 2021

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Dana Point Times February 26-March 4, 2021

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