April 22, 2022

APRIL 22-28, 2022 | VOLUME 15, ISSUE 16

L O C A L

N E W S

Y O U

C A N

INSIDE: Special Section

U S E

Living Art

Interactive Art Studio, Gallery to Open at Prado West E Y E O N D P/ PAG E 3

danapointtimes.com

Local artist Chris Justice will paint live on-site at the gallery space in Prado West and interact with visitors. Photo: Breeana Greenberg

REDO Market to Unite South County’s Vintage Vendors, Artists

South County to Celebrate Earth Day

Dana Hills Golf on Cruise Control

EYE ON DP/PAGE 4

GETTING OUT/PAGE 9

SPORTS/PAGE 29

Dana Point Times April 22-28, 2022

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EYE ON DP

What’s Up With...

TOP NEWS DANA POINT SHOULD KNOW THIS WEEK

Interactive Art Studio, Gallery to Open at Prado West

BY BREEANA GREENBERG

A temporary studio and gallery space will open on Saturday, April 23, with Dana Point artist Chris Justice setting up shop in the Prado West development.

Set to stay open through mid-August, the gallery will be an interactive studio, where Justice, who grew up in Dana Point and graduated from Dana Hills High in 2006, will paint on-site and interact with visitors.

“I may or may not do a live painting (at Saturday’s opening)—I’ll just leave it there,” Justice said.

Justice plans on having a variety of events throughout his residency at Del Prado, including a weekly happy hour. He hopes that the additional events will bring people back to the space again and again.

While there, he’ll also be painting new artwork. The works displayed one day may be replaced with completely new work the next.

“I plan on every Friday doing a happy hour, from probably 5-7 p.m., where I will be pouring wine,” Justice said. “And people can experience my process as an artist. They’re going to be able to watch me work the whole time.”

Justice’s gallery hours will be Thursday through Sunday from noon to 8 p.m.

He will work out of the studio for the duration of the gallery hours.

Justice hopes that the Artist in Resi-

dency concept will connect the community with his process as an artist and plans on using the space as a studio in addition to a gallery.

The Dana Point Entertainment and Arts Council (DPEAC), a new nonprofit, facilitated the residency concept with support from Raintree Partners.

“That new 501(c)(3) has been designed to help further the arts and entertainment in the city and help raise funds to support those types of endeavors,” said Todd Wallin, DPEAC managing director.

“This is the first event that DPEAC is supporting,” he continued. “So, we put the idea together, went to Raintree Partners—definitely kudos to them for stepping up and actually making the space available and seeing the vision of what we’re trying to create—and then we went out and tried to find a local artist.”

Raintree allowed DPEAC to handpick a space in its new development, Prado West.

“When we went to them, Jason and the owner, Jeff Allen, the owners of Raintree, were really supportive of trying to do something that’s different and had a cool energy to it for the city, and they liked Chris’ artwork as well,” Wallin said.

“They thought it was vibrant and cool for the city,” Wallin added. “When you have a good landlord or business developer like Raintree stepping up and helping the community, they just made it a lot easier to get done.”

DPEAC is looking to bring a vibrant experience to the town center.

“With all the changes going on, it’s important that we keep doing events like this

Local artist Chris Justice will paint live on site at the gallery space in Prado West and interact with visitors. Photo: Breeana Greenberg

and make it interactive and fun, things that not only attract locals but that our visitors enjoy,” Dana Point Arts and Culture Commissioner Ashley Keene said.“That way, we can all enjoy everything the community has to offer and also highlight the people who live here and have grown here.”

The Artist in Residency concept brings more of a communal experience of art, which can be more of an isolating experience for the artist.

“The really cool thing, what means a lot to me with this show, is that working artists spend a lot of time alone in their studios, and that’s just the way it is,” Justice said. “Having this space and having this artist-in-residence concept really reverses that. It enables the artist, myself, to connect with the community on more of a human level than just me making art in my studio and then selling it to somebody and repeat, repeat, repeat.”

Justice said he hopes that the gallery opening can be a celebration of bringing back gatherings. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Justice hasn’t been

able to put on an art show in more than two years, he said.

“We’re kind of on the backside of a lot of tough times, and I think a lot of people have been very stressed and worried, and I just want to be able to have this be a show that kind of celebrates us being back to some normalcy,” Justice said.

All of the art will be for sale, as well as all of the art that Justice will be creating in the space.

“I just want this to be a space that people can come and hang out and feel comfortable and not necessarily feel the pressure to buy the art, nor will I hardsell them on buying the art,” Justice said.

“I just want people to come and have a space where they can just kind of chill out for a few minutes.”

On Saturday, DPEAC and Justice will host a reception and special wine testing with the Santa Barbara-based Margerum Wine Company from 5-8 p.m. at 24471 Del Prado Ave, Suite B. RSVP for the event by contacting Justice on Instagram @chrisjustice_art.

Man Convicted in Death of Ocean Institute Founder Sentenced

Cummings had been riding his bicycle with his wife of 31 years, Sigrid Cummings, on July 5, 2021, when he was struck by a tractor that Lechtenberg was towing, according to the Peninsula Daily News in Washington.

Cummings, who was 76 years old, was taken to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle. On July 13, he was pronounced dead as a result of his injuries.

“On the morning of July 5, he and I were crabbing in our canoe. A few hours later, we were on our bicycles, headed into town for lunch and, in an instant, all our lives were dramatically changed because of Mr. Lechtenberg’s negligence,” Sigrid said in her impact statement to the court.

“I live at Kala Point, and there is only one route into Port Townsend,” she later (Cont. on page 4)

BY SHAWN RAYMUNDO

The man who pleaded guilty to vehicular homicide in the death of Ocean Institute founder Stanley Cummings was sentenced by a Jefferson County court in Washington state late last month.

Gregory Lechtenberg—who turned 82 on April 2—was sentenced on March 25 to serve six months in community custody under the Department of Corrections’ supervision, pay a $600 fine, and have his driver’s license revoked, according to court records.

Stanley and Sigrid Cummings had been married for 31 years when Stanley died after being struck by a tractor in July 2021. The man who pleaded guilty to vehicular homicide in Stanley’s death was sentenced by a court in Washington late last month Photo: Courtesy of Ocean Institute

Dana Point Times April 22-28, 2022

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EYE ON DP

Curating ‘Best of the Best,’ REDO Market Unites South County’s Vintage Vendors, Artists The REDO Vintage & Maker’s Market is coming back to Dana Point for its third year on May 1, when more than 100 vendors, a dozen artists, three music stages, three beer gardens and two vintage car groups will line multiple blocks along Del Prado Ave. throughout the day.

The event launched in 2019 after the city approached REDO founder Randy Hild to see if there’d be any interest in a vintage surf market in Dana Point.

Hild collects all things surf and skate, and he had become acquainted with vintage markets up and down the coast and across the country.

“It just happens to be something I’ve watched and participated in and sold and bought at; I collect all things surf and skate and have for 30 years, so I knew that network and the city thought it was a good idea,” Hild said.

From there, the idea took off.

“What started as maybe doing a vintage, surf and skate market was where this seed of an idea started,” Hild said.

“It morphed into what was then my concept, but with the city’s full input and cooperation.”

REDO Market fills three blocks of Del Prado with vintage vendors. Hild clarified that everything needs to be at least 40 years old to be considered vintage, and 100 years old to be considered antique.

“What makes this market unique is that I do really try to pull from vendors, the food vendors, vintage vendors, and music vendors from South Orange

County,” Hild said. “We really try to keep it local.”

Hild added that there are “some exceptions to that, and we do draw dealers who come from LA to San Diego, but if you’re from Orange County and you’re a vintage dealer, you’re a music act, you’re a food truck, you definitely get priority.”

There is now a waiting list of vendors hoping to sell their vintage goods at REDO Market, Hild said.

“It’s gotten to the point where I’m able to really curate the best of the best to be there,” Hild said. “There’s housewares people, there’s surfboards and skateboards, so guys that sell only vintage surfboards and skateboards; we have a group of vinyl record vendors that sell cassette tapes, 8-track tapes and vinyl records. And then there’s clothing. The vintage clothing thing is probably the biggest category.”

The inaugural event was held in 2019 and featured 60 unique vendors. It wasn’t held in 2020 amid the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2021, the market featured 100 dealers and attracted record attendance while following the latest COVID guidelines.

This year’s event will have three stages for music and three beer gardens, as well as 120 dealers. Of the 120 dealers, about 12 booths will be allocated to artists, with the remaining booths dedicated to vintage sellers.

“We’ll have a couple photographers, a couple illustrators; there’ll be a couple jewelry makers, a potter, a local guy that hand-makes wood-cutting and carving boards,” Hild said. “But everyone on that list in the category of artists, if they don’t live in Dana Point, they live in one of the connecting cities.”

The stages are booked with a variety

of performances throughout the day, from a hula troop to local bands.

Anthony Small, co-founder of the Dana Point-based Music Preserves Foundation, will program one of the sound stages, branded as the Music Preserve Stage.

StillWater Spirits & Sounds will host performances on an outdoor stage starting at 2 p.m. and will carry on after the REDO Market closes at 4 p.m.

A Volkswagen Bus club and Vintage woody club will also be on either ends of the market.

“It’s kind of a fun little car show, but a much smaller portion of our day, and not really meant to be a car show, but it just adds a little flavor to the day,” Hild said.

Hild hopes that visitors come away wanting to come back to Dana Point feeling welcomed by the city.

“We want to continue to have this really wonderful day, and my job is to keep making it a better experience for everyone,” Hild said. “So, we make sure we have plenty of food trucks for everyone, and we make sure parking isn’t a hassle, we make sure there’s great music.”

“I want to have kids with sand on their feet walking barefoot from Doheny, but I also want the private communities to get out of their gate and come down and get on the street and everyone enjoy the city and enjoy each other’s company,” he continued.

Hild added that he sees the event as a way to unify the community.

“I think this event helps (keep the community united), and I give the city tremendous credit; they’re really passionate about it and really care about it,” he said. “It’s a treat to be connected to something like this.”

REDO Market will run from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on May 1 on Del Prado Ave. Parking and admission are both free. More information can be found at redomarket.com.

(Cont. from page 3) added. “I must drive that dreadful site every time I go into town, and the emotional and psychological effects of that are ongoing and profound.”

Lechtenberg was charged with vehicular homicide with disregard for the safety of others, a Class A felony that can carry with it a life sentence in prison and a $50,000 fine, the news outlet reported.

However, Lechtenberg, a first-time offender, was given a waiver of the standard sentence following Sigrid’s impact statement, in which she also said,“I do not believe justice would be served by putting an 81-year-old negligent man in prison.”

“There can be no ‘justice’ in a situation like this,” Sigrid continued. “We all know that in this precarious journey of life, bad things sometimes happen to good people. All I ever asked for from Mr. Lechtenberg was an apology. I speak for the entire Cummings family and gratefully accept the heartfelt one he and his family have sent.”

Sigrid added that she holds no animosity toward Lechtenberg, “just deep sadness for the unfortunate circumstances that intersected our paths.”

“As we move forward with our lives,” she continued, “we will all have to live with our own grief, and without the man who was killed, and who we all loved.”

Stanley Cummings, a lifelong science educator, was born in 1945 in Summit, N.J., grew up in Greenfield, Massachusetts and earned a doctorate from Stanford University. Prior to founding the Ocean Institute in Dana Point, he developed educational programs at Yosemite Institute.

Among his accomplishments during his tenure running the local institute, Cummings was elected president of the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce, was named Dana Point Citizen of the Year, brought the tallship Pilgrim to the facility, and founded the annual Tallships Festival.

Stanley and Sigrid moved to Port

Townsend in 2007, when he accepted the job as executive director for the Northwest Maritime Center and the Wooden Boat Foundation.

In her impact statement, Sigrid explained that her late husband was responsible for completing a $16.8 million capital campaign and constructing the campus for the NWMC. She also noted his role in building “an education center three times larger” in Dana Point that’s benefited thousands of children.

“So, you see,” she said, “Mr. Lechtenberg did not kill an ordinary man—he killed an extraordinary man, and we are all suffering because of the unfortunate death of Stan Cummings.”

BY BREEANA GREENBERG

Dana Point Times April 22-28, 2022

The REDO Vintage & Maker’s Market will return to Dana Point on May 1, bringing in vintage vendors, artists, musicians and classic car enthusiasts from South Orange County. Photo: File

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EYE ON DP

City, VFW Honor Dana Point’s First Responders with Annual Awards

BY SHAWN RAYMUNDO

Sheriff’s deputies and firefighters on Tuesday night, March 19, gathered at the City Council chambers, where three of Dana Point’s first responders were recognized by the city and local Veterans of Foreign Wars chapter for their service to the community.

Deputy sheriff Ivan Recinos, retired fire Capt. Andrew Vanderstelt and reserve firefighter Brian Chen received the VFW’s Deputy of the Year, Firefighter of the Year and EMT of the Year awards, respectively.

“Every year, we get to do this at the City Council chambers, where we as an organization, the VFW and the city get to honor our first responders,” Councilmember Richard Viczorek said. “And we have the best in the country; I put them up against anybody.”

Recinos, Viczorek explained, grew up in Orange County, graduating from Anaheim High School in 2009. He attended California State University, Fullerton, which is where his interest in law enforcement began.

From 2009 to 2015, he served as a cadet in the Anaheim Police Department before joining the department in an official capacity in 2015. The next year, he joined the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, and has been assigned to Dana Point Police Services for the past three years.

Viczorek highlighted an incident from March 2020, when Recinos displayed heroism. A male citizen, according to Viczorek, had suffered a traumatic medical issue while driving along Doheny Park Road.

“The vehicle rolled through the stoplight and hit a curb before coming to a rest,” Viczorek said.“Citizens and deputy Recinos attempted to assist the man and saw he was in distress. Deputy Recinos and his partner performed several rounds of CPR, which successfully resuscitated the man.”

Wayne Yost, VFW District 2 senior vice-commander, said it was first respond-

Jury Finds SJC Woman Guilty in Dana Point Harbor Boat Killing

BY COLLIN BREAUX

Sheila Marie Ritze, 42, of San Juan Capistrano, was found guilty by a federal jury on Tuesday, April 19, of felony criminal charges in connection with the October 2019 murder of a Dana Point Times April 22-28, 2022

Capt. Kirsten Monteleone, chief of Dana Point Police Services, praises deputy sheriff Ivan Recinos during the City Council’s April 19 meeting, when the city and VFW awarded him Deputy of the Year. Photo: Shawn Raymundo

ers like Recinos who contribute to Dana Point being a “7-square-mile of heaven.”

Dana Point Police Chief Capt. Kirsten Monteleone showered Recinos with additional praise, stating that whenever she, the department and the city need something done, “he’s the first guy to answer up and say, ‘I can do this.’”

Recinos thanked his family for their support and his upbringing, and also thanked his supervisors in the department, crediting them for constantly pushing him “to be a better person and make better decisions.”

Later highlighting Vanderstelt’s career, Viczorek noted that the recently retired firefighter gave 30 years of service to the community.

“Anybody with that type of dedication and longevity obviously is a quality person, and that’s the type of people we have been blessed to have serve our community,” the councilmember said.

Rob Capobianco, division chief for the Orange County Fire Authority who’s known Vanderstelt for 25 years, praised the honoree for his leadership and integri-

ty, as well as the way he trained and mentored firefighters over the past 30 years.

While joking that he could talk forever if given the chance, Vanderstelt quickly acknowledged that he’s been blessed to serve in South Orange County for most of his career and was able to retire out of Dana Point’s Fire Station 30.

“It’s a wonderful community, a great people, great partners on the law enforcement side,” he said. “I’ve been blessed, I couldn’t be happier and more excited to go into retirement.”

Vanderstelt also explained that he’s recently started riding with a motorcycle club for firefighters who participate in charity rides. Last weekend, he said, the club rode with a similar club of combat veterans, raising $20,000 for veteran charities.

Rounding out this year’s honorees by spotlighting Chen, Viczorek noted that as a reservist for the U.S. Marine Corps, he has a special spot for fellow reservists such as Chen.

“It’s important to let people know that this is not his everyday job; this is some-

thing he does to augment the active-duty firefighters,” Viczorek said.“It’s a difficult thing to do when you have a regular day job, you have family, you have interests, you have hobbies, and yet you still find time to serve your community. So that’s why we appreciate reserve firefighters so much.”

Chen has worked out of the Dana Point Fire Station since 2019 and recently completed his OCF operator course, according to Viczorek, who again stressed that “this is on top of his regular job before he goes and does his job as a reserve firefighter.”

Similarly, Yost praised Chen for donating his time as a reservist, stating,“It takes a special person that is dedicated not only to his job and his family, but then also volunteers to go above and beyond to serve the people of his community.”

Capobianco said it’s always a welcome sight whenever the department gets a reservist like Chen, whom he described as well-educated and motivated.

“He hasn’t been with us long, and he’s already making an impact,” the fire chief said of Chen.

man whose body was found floating in the Pacific Ocean with bullet and blunt force trauma wounds, a news release from the U.S. Department of Justice said.

Ritze was found guilty of second-degree murder within the special maritime and territorial jurisdiction of the United States and making false statements to federal investigators.

“At her sentencing hearing, which is expected in the coming months, Ritze will face a statutory maximum sentence of life in federal prison,” the

news release said.

Ritze and Hoang Xuan Le, 40, of Fountain Valley, were convicted of killing Tri “James” Minh Dao—who reportedly owed money to Le—while out on Ritze’s boat, docked at Dana Point Harbor.

“Around midnight (on October 15, 2019), Ritze drove her boat out into the Pacific Ocean with Le and the victim on board,” the news release said. “Le shot the victim on the boat, the victim went overboard, and Ritze and Le left the victim to die in the ocean, where he drowned. Le and Ritze then returned to

Dana Point Harbor. The victim’s body was recovered from the Pacific Ocean several miles northwest of Oceanside on October 16, 2019.”

Le was found guilty by a jury in December 2021 of first-degree murder within the special maritime and territorial jurisdiction of the United States, conspiracy to commit murder, and using a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.

Le faces a mandatory sentence of life in federal prison at his June 27 sentencing hearing, the news release said.

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SOAPBOX

GUEST OPINION | Citizens’ Climate Education by Julianne Steers

Give Swell to Sea-Level Rise T he sun is out, and quality surf continues.

There is a southwest swell maintaining sets pushing 6-to-8foot waves, a period of 20 seconds, and 8-wave sets hitting the coast on repeat.

The news we all hope to wake up to every day.

You check the cams; it is a perfect combination of sun and glass, yet it will only improve as the tide shifts.

Surf, at many spots along our coast, is tide-sensitive. Too high, the waves do not break. Too low, the shoreline reef becomes exposed and dangerous. The perfect balance equals a prime wave.

These few feet definitely make a difference. Just think, what if we added three feet to our normal tides? Forever.

That is where a future lies with sea-level rise.

Our precious surf breaks and our iconic coastline are extremely vulnerable to changes in sea level. Sea level as we know it will change, and with it where the surf breaks and how the coast erodes will change.

These changes will have profound impacts on our coastal communities.

Exactly, how does sea level rise? In respect to climate change, our ocean rises by a few factors.

First, as the oceans warm due to an increasing global temperature, seawater expands—taking up more space in the ocean basin and causing a rise in water level.

The second mechanism is the melting of ice over GUEST OPINION land, which then

BY JULIANNE E. adds more water STEERS to the ocean.

Thirdly, vertical land movement on our West Coast results in considerable subsistence (sinking). This trio of processes certainly adds up.

Thankfully, we have technology that helps scientists monitor and measure sea level using tide buoys and satellites, rendering local and global data.

Together, these tools demonstrate how

our sea levels are changing over time.

You may have heard of the King Tides during our winter months that are unrelated to climate change, but bring an additional foot of water to our shore.

These events are excellent indicators of how our coastal infrastructure will fare as our climate shifts.

Our stunning sea cliffs of sedimentary rock will not withstand the pounding swell. Erosion is imminent, causing coastlines to retreat, pressuring the homes and rail lines of our communities.

Year by year, we can adapt, plan, and adjust to ensure the longevity of our towns and that perfect wave.

Julianne Steers is a marine biologist and conservation photographer. She has an extensive background in ecology, and has been researching, diving and exploring the local ecosystem and beyond to sustain the natural world. 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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HOW TO REACH US MANAGING EDITOR Shawn Raymundo • 949.388.7700, x113 sraymundo@picketfencemedia.com SPORTS Zach Cavanagh • 949.388.7700, x110 zcavanagh@picketfencemedia.com ADVERTISING Lauralyn Loynes • 949.388.7700, x102 lloynes@picketfencemedia.com DISTRIBUTION Racks, Driveways, Subscriptions Inna Cazares • 949.388.7700, x111 icazares@picketfencemedia.com GENERAL MANAGER Alyssa Garrett • 949.388.7700, x100 agarrett@picketfencemedia.com

PICKET FENCE MEDIA CEO/FOUNDER Norb Garrett EDITORIAL Managing Editor Shawn Raymundo City Reporter, DP Times Breeana Greenberg City Reporter, SC Times C. Jayden Smith

Letter to The Editor WILL DANA POINT’S SHORT-TERM RENTAL ORDINANCE UNDERMINE HOA’S CC&RS? PAUL N. WYATT, Dana Point In early 2022, the City of Dana Point STR Subcommittee submitted a Draft Short-Term Rental (STR) Ordinance to the California Coastal Commission for comment.

In a letter dated April 1, 2022 the Coastal Commission sent its comments and suggestions, including the following: “First, a component of obtaining a STR permit as identified in the Draft STR Program is that the owner shall provide proof that the STRs are not prohibited by its Home Owners Association (HOA) Conditions, Covenants, and Restrictions (CC&R’s) or any other community standards/guidelines applicable to the proposed STR. “The City has previously decided

Dana Point Times April 22-28, 2022

Every HOA resident should pay close attention to the content and progress of this ordinance.

Complete details can be found at this link: danapoint. org/home/showpublisheddocument/34156/637848611968670000.

to remain impartial and avoid acting as arbitrator in disputes between the individual homeowners and their HOAs, and the City has stated that they cannot issue STR permits and cannot intervene if an HOA prohibits use of STRs in their CC&R’s, as it involves private property rights and not zoning.

“However, the most recent 2020 STR Survey has shown that approximately (42%) of participants are residents of HOAs. While this does not correlate to an exact figure, it appears that an outsized portion of the City’s population may be excluded from participating in the STR Program.

“This means that large portions of Dana Point’s Coastal Zone may not be eligible for the provision of STRs, which may (obstruct) public access. Commission staff are aware of this issue, and it has been discussed at length in the staff report for LCP Amendment No. 1-14; however. Commission staff urge the City to find ways to mitigate for this inherent obstacle to providing equitable public access and recreational opportunities along the coast.”

Every HOA whose CC&Rs restricts STRs should be aware that the Coastal Commission views these as obstacles to coastal access and is urging the City to find ways to mitigate these obstacles.

EDITOR’S NOTE: In the CCC’s April 1 letter, a word was missing in the sentence regarding Dana Point’s Coastal Zone not being eligible for provisions of STRs. It was the author’s choice to include the word “obstruct” as a parenthetical to fill in that portion of the sentence.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY Have something you’d like to say? Email your letter to sraymundo@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.

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City Editor, Capo Dispatch Collin Breaux Sports Editor Zach Cavanagh Columnists Fred Swegles Tom Blake Special Projects Editor Andrea Papagianis-Camacho Copy Editor Randy Youngman

ADVERTISING Associate Publisher Lauralyn Loynes (DP + SC) Advertising Sales Debra Wells (CD) ART + DESIGN Art Director Jasmine Smith Graphic Designer Chelsie Rex OPERATIONS General Manager Alyssa Garrett Group Operations & Production Coordinator Inna Cazares FINANCE Accounting & Finance Manager Tricia Zines CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Jake Howard

Dana Point Times, Vol. 15 Issue 16. 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 2022. All rights reserved.

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GETTING OUT

Editor’s Pick

BACKCOUNTRY HIKE 9-11 a.m. Join members of the San Onofre Parks Foundation for a hike to celebrate Earth Day. Meet at the trailhead at the end of Avenida La Pata near the San Clemente Dog Park. 301 Avenida La Pata. sanoparks.org.

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

Get a curated list of the weekend’s best events sent straight to your inbox every Friday! Sign up for The Weekender at danapointtimes.com/weekender

FRIDAY | 22 CALIFORNIA WINE FESTIVAL 6:30-9 p.m. The California Wine Festival will return to Dana Point to celebrate its 20th anniversary on April 22-23. The two-day event will feature tastings from vineyards in Napa Valley, Sonoma County, Paso Robles, Santa Barbara, Temecula and more, as well as live entertainment and gourmet food selections. California Wine Festival is restricted to adults 21 and older. californiawinefestival.com/dana-point.

LIVE MUSIC AT STILLWATER 7 p.m. Live music is featured at this popular South Orange County venue. 80s tribute band 80s All Stars will perform.

StillWater Spirits & Sounds, 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point. 949.661.6003. danapointstillwater.com.

LIVE THEATER AT CAMINO REAL PLAYHOUSE 7:30 p.m. Have some laughs and watch actors perform in downtown San Juan Capistrano. Camino Real Playhouse is staging The Clueless Sheriff, a Western melodrama set in old San Juan Capistrano. The show runs through May 8. Camino Real Playhouse, 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.489.8082. caminorealplayhouse.org.

FRIDAY NIGHT AT PADDY’S STATION 8-11 p.m. Grab a pint, order some fish and chips, and spend the night at a downtown Irish pub. Cover band British Invasion will perform. Paddy’s Station, 26701 Verdugo Street, Suite B, San Juan Capistrano.

949.661.3400. paddysstation.com.

Dana Point Times April 22-28, 2022

Los Rios Street, San Juan Capistrano.

714.299.0912. info@greatopps.org.

Volunteers at Ocean Institute worked with Tree of Life Nursery in April 2021 to install native plant species that will offer essential resources for native fauna. Photo: File/Lillian Boyd

SATURDAY | 23 EARTH DAY NATIVE PLANTING PROJECT 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Beautify a planter mound with a variety of colorful California native plants to attract pollinators to Doheny by providing a vital habitat and nectar source. Please bring along your own shovel, gardening gloves, and refillable water bottle. Don’t forget to dress for getting dirty. Check-in will be at the picnic tables across from the Doheny park entrance, beneath the green canopies. Complimentary parking passes are given at the check-in table and are valid until 12:30, upon completion of the projects. Doheny State Beach, 25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. vwiker@parks.ca.gov.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Be sure to check out the numerous other Earth Day-related events happening around all three of our South OC towns LIVE THEATER AT CABRILLO PLAYHOUSE 7:30 p.m. The Cabrillo Playhouse presents Sylvia, a modern romantic comedy about a marriage and a dog. The show will run on weekends through May 15, and admission is $25. Cabrillo Playhouse, 202 Avenida Cabrillo, San Clemente.

949.492.0465. cabrilloplayhouse.org.

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

EARTH DAY COMEDY SHOW 8 p.m. Have some laughs at Knuckleheads Sports Bar, where several comedians will perform. The show will be hosted by Jessie Greg. Knuckleheads, 1717 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente.

949.492.2410. knuckleheadsmusic.com.

EVERY DAY IS EARTH DAY 9 a.m.-1 p.m. The ocean begins at your front door. Trash on your doorstep will find its way to street, gutter, sewer, creek, river, then the ocean. Presented

by Great Opportunities Nonprofit and the San Juan Capistrano Youth Advisory Board, this Earth Day event invites the community to assist in the beautification of San Juan. Great Opportunities opens the door for underserved youth to increase their knowledge about their aquatic environment, grow their life skills and experience leadership through teaching swimming, beach programs, environmental awareness, and transportation. Meet at Los Rios Park, 31791

SATURDAY | 23 EARTH DAY STEWARDSHIP DAY 8-11 a.m. Help maintain the natural habitat at The Nature Reserve in Rancho Mission Viejo, in celebration of Earth Day. Volunteers can help remove weeds and clean up the outdoor preserve.

Volunteers are encouraged to bring work gloves if they have them. Participants must be registered by 4 p.m. on Friday, April 22. The Richard and Donna O’Neill Conservancy, 28811 Ortega Highway, Rancho Mission Viejo. 949.489.9778. thenaturereserve.org.

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WYLAND’S WHALE AND DOLPHIN ADVENTURE ART LESSONS IN THE WILD 9 a.m.-noon. Available one last Saturday, Dana Wharf is offering this exclusive package for kids ages 12-and-under that includes an art lesson via video feed by environmental artist Wyland and a free two-hour whale watching adventure. Each child who participates in the art lesson will be entered in a contest to win prizes, as well as a gift from Wyland and Dana Wharf. Lessons cost $10. Dana Wharf, 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point. 888.224.0603. danawharf.com.

SEED CONNECTION 9-10 a.m. The Ecology Center is providing this hands-on lab about soil and seeds, so people can learn about gardening, saving seeds, and which food is appropriate to grow in a given season. The event is open to all ages, so you can learn something whether you have a kid just developing a green thumb or you are an adult looking to grow more plants in the backyard. The event is free. The Ecology Center, 32701 Alipaz Street, San Juan Capistrano.

949.443.4223. theecologycenter.org.

18TH ANNUAL EARTH DAY FESTIVAL 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. The City of San Clemente and the Watershed Task Force will host this free event, where attendees can receive information about caring for natural resources from various organizations. The day’s festivities begin with a beach cleanup at 8:30 a.m. at the municipal pier, followed by demonstrations, giveaways, and other activities at Parque Del Mar in the Pier Bowl.

622 Avenida Del Mar. 949.361.8322. san-clemente.org.

COMMUNITY BEACH CLEANUP 9-11 a.m. In partnership with Stand Up to Trash, the Ocean Institute will host a Beach Cleanup & Lunch and Learn in honor of Earth Day. Bags and grabbers will be provided, but reusable gloves are encouraged. Fresh coffee, hot chocolate and donuts will be provided by The Coffee Importers. Participants are encouraged to bring their own reusable cup. Check-in at Baby Beach or the Ocean Institute. Ocean Institute, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point.

949.496.2274. oceaninstitute.org.

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GETTING OUT

(Cont. from page 9) FREE SHRED DAY AND SIDEWALK SALE 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Join the Monarch Bay Plaza for its annual free community shred day.

Shredding services are provided by Paper Recycling and Shredding Specialties.

Watch your documents being cross-cut shred for better destruction. Certification of destruction available upon request Limit of five banker boxes per person. Monarch Bay Plaza, 32840 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point.

CHRIS JUSTICE: ARTIST IN RESIDENCE 5 -8 p.m. Dana Point Entertainment Arts Council presents the opening reception to a new exhibition at Prado West. Dana Point artist Chris Justice will paint and display art out of a temporary studio space provided by Prado West. He will be available to the community for questions on Thursdays through Sundays from noon-8 p.m., with Friday happy hours from 5-7 p.m. Prado West, 24471 Del Prado Ave, Suite B, Dana Point.

EARTH DAY PARTY 5-7 p.m. Get into the spirit of Earth Day with a party at Rhythm and Resin, sponsored by the Paskowitz Foundation.

There will be live music, food, drinks, and raffle prizes. The $10 donation at the door will go toward efforts to pick up trash at beaches and parking lots during Earth Month. Rhythm and Resin, 220 Avenida Vaquero, San Clemente. keepersofthesea.org/events/earthday.

SUNDAY | 24 FARMERS MARKET 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Shop for a wide selection of fruits, vegetables and artisanal goods from organic growers at the Community Center/San Clemente Public Library parking lot. 100 North Calle Seville, San Clemente. 949.361.8200. san-clemente.org.

MONDAY | 25 OPEN JAM 7-10 p.m. Play your own percussion,

acoustic or electric instruments every Monday night at Knuckleheads. Amps are allowed, but drums are not. Knuckleheads, 1717 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.492.2410. knuckleheadsmusic.com.

WEDNESDAY | 27 SAN ONOFRE PARKS FOUNDATION POP-UP SHOP 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The Historic Cottage and Visitor Center showcases local history, flora and fauna at this original 1934 ranger’s cottage. A rotating exhibit features the history of San Onofre. Stop in to the San Onofre Parks Foundation’s Pop-Up Shop to say hello, do a little shopping and learn more about the history of the local state parks at San Clemente and San Onofre State Beaches. Historic Cottage and Visitor Center is located within the San Clemente State Beach Campground at 225 Avenida Calafia, San Clemente. 949.366.8599. admin@sanoparks.org. sanoparks.org.

ON STAGE AT THE COACH HOUSE

MISSION CLUBHOUSE ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Bring the kids to Mission San Juan Capistrano for hands-on, fun educational activities in the Mission Clubhouse space. Youngsters can weave baskets, build structural arches with miniature blocks, and engage in more Mission-themed tasks. Clubhouse events happen every day from Tuesday through Sunday. Mission San Juan Capistrano, 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.234.1300. missionsjc.com.

What: Dennis Quaid When: Friday, May 13. Doors open at 6 p.m.; concert starts at 8 p.m.

BY COLLIN BREAUX, DANA POINT TIMES

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Dana Point Times April 22-28, 2022

THURSDAY | 28

SHOW DETAILS

DENNIS QUAID hen one hears the name Dennis Quaid, what springs to mind are likely the movies in which he appeared.

Quaid, of course, is famous for his many roles in films over the years— The Day After Tomorrow, The Parent Trap, and many more.

What you may not know is that he’s also a musician—so much so that he’s heading out on tour, including a stop at The Coach House in San Juan Capistrano. Quaid will play at the South Orange County venue on May 13.

That day is a Friday, but it isn’t likely to be unlucky, considering you’ll get an up-close view of the famous actor spinning down-home country and blues music—and sharing stories about his film and recording career along the way.

During an interview with The Capistrano Dispatch, Quaid estimated the upcoming gig will be his 15th or 16th time taking the stage at The Coach House. He called the intimate spot a “great place to play.”

“The audiences are really great,” Quaid said of the local venue. “The staff is fantastic. Everyone’s coming in

OPEN MIC NIGHT AT KNUCKLEHEADS 8-10 p.m. Knuckleheads is open for food, drinks and live music. Performers of all skill levels are welcome. If you are a musician, do stand-up comedy or the spoken word, this is the place to be on Wednesday nights. So, come down, grab a drink and go for it. Knuckleheads Sports Bar, 1717 North El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.492.2410. knuckleheadsmusic.com.

Where: 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano For tickets or more info: thecoachhouse.com. Tickets are $35.

The one and only Dennis Quaid will play music and entertain fans at The Coach House on May 13. Photo: Courtesy of Derrek Kupish

the band Quaid has played with in the past. Quaid, like many touring musicians, is looking forward to getting back to live performances—though he admits he didn’t take as much time off during that period as others, since he previously played in Alaska during the worldwide pandemic.

looking for a good time.”

Quaid equates playing a concert to performing in theater, because you can look right into the faces of the people in the audience, which artists feed off in terms of energy.

The San Juan Capistrano concert will also be a reunion with The Sharks,

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“It’s been hard on everybody,” Quaid said.

Asked what draws him to rustic old-time tunes, Quaid attributes that inclination to growing up in Texas. His taste runs from Johnny Cash to The Beatles to The Doors. Some of his favorite songs to cover are from Jerry Lee Lewis, as a nod to when he portrayed the entertainer in the 1989 biographical film Great Balls of Fire!

Quaid’s tour kicks off on May 5 in Utah and includes a stop in San Diego on the night before he takes center stage at The Coach House. His tour wraps up on May 19 in Sebastopol, California.

“I would love for everybody to come out,” Quaid said. “Hopefully, we’ll have some return business at The Coach House.” DP

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Dana Point Times April 22-28, 2022

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Welcome to Aging Well

I

t’s springtime in South Orange County, which means there’s plenty to do, places to see and people to greet.

And just in time for the season, we at Picket Fence Media have put together our biannual Aging Well issue, in which we provide tips to readers on how to continue enjoying life and prospering in our little slice of paradise.

In this year’s spring edition of Aging Well, we highlight some of the benefits that Chair Yoga can offer those faced with mobility limitations who still want to practice mindfulness and meditation.

We also spend some time with the docent tour guides and Gardening Angels for Mission San Juan Capistrano. The group, comprising mostly older individuals who help keep visitors informed and the Mission’s greenery looking lush, explain how volunteering has helped keep their minds active and provided opportunities to socialize.

Also, travel agents give us the lowdown on safe traveling, specifically aboard cruise ships, as the world continues getting back to normal—or as normal as can be—post-pandemic.

And as a treat for you, our loyal readers, a couple of PFM columnists make special appearances.

First, nutritionist Gina Cousineau explains the importance of maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle while offering a tasty pasta salad recipe.

And then we chat with our senior dating expert, Tom Blake, about his experience finding love after 50.

We hope this edition of Aging Well can help readers learn something new and also help them make the most of living in beautiful, sunny South Orange County.

HOW TO PREVENT A FALL

BY ZACH CAVANAGH

More than one in three people over the age of 65 fall each year, according to the National Institute on Aging, and the risk of falling and fall-related problems increases with each passing year.

Many things can cause a fall, whether it’s dulling of eyesight, hearing or reflexes, or other medical conditions that affect your balance. Whatever may be the cause, there are several steps everyone can take to lower the chances of falling.

• Stay physically active. An exercise program to strengthen muscles, keep joints flexible and improve balance is a key step, and it can slow bone loss.

• Hearing and vision tests. Even the slightest changes to your eyesight and hearing can cause a fall. Get the proper eyewear or a hearing aid to help.

• Find out about medicine side effects. If a certain drug makes you dizzy or sleepy, let your doctor know.

• Proper sleep. Get the right amount of shut-eye to be alert, strong and rested for each day.

• Limiting alcohol. Even drinking a small bit of alcohol can slow your reflexes and affect your balance.

• Stand up slowly. Rising too fast can cause a drop in blood pressure that can make you wobbly.

• Be careful. Watch the surfaces you walk on, and wear the proper supportive footwear. If needed, use a walker or cane for support as well.

It’s also recommended to keep your bones strong, because in the event of a fall, it can help reduce the risk of fractures. As mentioned, exercise can help, as well as a diet with enough calcium and vitamin D. Dana Point Times April 22-28, 2022

Shut-Eye Solutions WHAT TO DO FOR YOUR BEST NIGHT’S SLEEP

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BY SHAWN RAYMUNDO

etting a good night’s rest can make a huge difference in how we all go about our day.

Health experts have long agreed that adults should strive to get seven to nine hours of sleep a night. However, the older we get, the harder it is, it seems, to get all those necessary Zzzz’s.

And despite typically hitting the hay much earlier than they previously had when they were younger—becoming early-morning risers as a result—many older adults still aren’t getting enough rest.

“There are many reasons why older people may not get enough sleep at night. Feeling sick or being in pain can make it hard to sleep,” explains the National Institute on Aging—an arm of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.

Other reasons commonly found in older adults, the institute adds, include insomnia and sleep apnea, as well as movement disorders such as restless leg syndrome and rapid eye movement. Having Alzheimer’s disease has also been found to disrupt one’s sleep habits.

Whatever the reason may be, those restless nights can often lead to irritability, memory problems or forgetfulness, falls and even depression, the institute further notes.

Physicians on sites including WebMD recommend Page 13

following a routine bedtime, every night, even during the weekends; heading to bed at the same time and waking up the next morning at the same time.

Before hitting the sack, though, they also recommend a few ways to wind your body down so it’s primed for sleep.

One suggestion is to take a warm bath, as the drop in body temperature from getting out of the tub could make you tired, while the bath itself is meant to be relaxing. Another suggestion is reading a book or listening to music, instead of watching television or scrolling on your phone.

Keeping your bedroom at a comfortable temperature to your liking could also help, and so could dimming the lights you use during the evening.

Napping throughout the day should also be avoided, both the institute and WebMD explain, as those naps can keep you up during the night. Other activities to avoid shortly before your bedtime include exercising, eating large meals and drinking alcohol.

Consuming less fluids altogether at night may also help you avoid getting up in the middle of your sleep to go to the bathroom.

While you don’t want to exercise within three hours of bedtime, getting exercise during the day will help wear your body out for the evening. And WebMD says that getting some sunlight every day will “let your body know when it’s time to be awake, and when it’s not.” danapointtimes.com

Eating Your ‘Weigh’ to Health

BY GINA COUSINEAU While February was Heart Health Awareness month, I believe every day should highlight the importance of our cardiac well-being, given that heart disease is the leading cause of death around the world for both men and women.

While there are many diets that claim to promote heart health, most tend to be restrictive and punitive, meaning one can only tolerate them for a short period of time.

As an interventional nutritionist, my experiences as a trained chef, fitness professional, and nutrition expert allow me to help my clients prevent, halt and reverse all lifestyle diseases, starting with a wholesome diet largely comprising mostly plants.

To these nutrient-dense plants, which include whole grains/starches, legumes (beans, lentils, chickpeas and the like), fruits, vegetables, and nuts/seeds, we incorporate lean proteins (both plant and animal options), nonfat/low-fat dairy and nondairy protein-rich calcium foods, along with healthy fats, allowing us to eat a wide and varied diet to promote longevity for all.

When you think of these foods listed

above, you should be able to see all cultures being enveloped here, not just the highly touted Mediterranean diet approach. We can and should be able to incorporate a hearthealthy diet into all ethnic foods and love every morsel we consume.

I believe strongly in the value of this evidence- and science-based nutrition approach, and helping my clients put this information onto their plates is my forte. I spend much of my time developing recipes and teaching clients how to maneuver joyfully and easily around their kitchens.

My hope is to promote the concept of conviviality, by bringing the family back around the kitchen table, sharing beautiful meals and conversation—something we have been missing of late.

One of the first things I encourage my clients to embrace with their lifestyle shift is the “healthy plate” approach, filling half of our plate with veggies, one-fourth of our plate with a lean protein option, and, yes, onefourth plate of a wholesome starch/grain.

If we can simply eat more foods closer to how they were grown (less processing), providing more nutrient-dense calories with a ton of fiber, adding volume to our plates, we will automatically eat less saturated fat, sugar and sodium.

Today, I share with you a lovely plant-based recipe, and suggest you complete the healthy plate by adding a lean protein and a bit of healthy fat to perfect this wholesome meal.

If you are interested in learning more about using “food as medicine” and improving the quality of your life, sign up for our weekly newsletter at mamagslifestyle.com, where you will be notified of our complimentary virtual cooking classes and webinars offered monthly, so that you, too, can live a long, healthy, independent, joyful life.

ROASTED VEGETABLE ORZO PASTA SALAD 6 servings / 255 calories each 4 oz (½ cup) Whole Wheat Orzo, dry 15 oz can Garbanzo Beans, no/low sodium prefer 2 tbsp Olive Oil, divided 10 oz (2 cups) Grape Tomatoes, diced 10 oz (2 cups) Red Onion, diced 10 oz (2 cups) Red/Yellow/Orange Peppers, diced 10 oz (2 cups) Yellow Bell Pepper, diced 10 oz (2 cups) Zucchini, diced 10 oz (2 cups) Cauliflower, small florets 10 oz (2 cups) Eggplant, diced 3 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar (or favorite flavor) 1 clove Garlic, minced Fresh Basil Cook orzo according to package directions; drain and rinse under cold water, transfer to a large bowl.

Drain and rinse garbanzo beans, adding to bowl with orzo. To roast vegetables, toss with one tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper in large bowl. Prepare baking sheets with parchment paper or nonstick foil. Don’t crowd, so consider using more than one pan. Roast at 425 degrees F, stirring every 10-15 minutes, until caramelized and tender, 30-45 minutes. Mix remaining one tbsp olive oil, vinegar, and garlic, seasoning with salt, pepper, and pinch of red pepper flakes, if desired. Toss well with vegetable mix. Adjust seasoning, as needed. Sprinkle with chopped basil.

Recommendations from Mama G Serve your hearty portion of this salad with grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp, a sprinkling of Parmigiano Reggiano, and pinch of crushed red pepper on top. You can find whole wheat orzo at Sprouts or on Amazon. You can choose to swap out garbanzo beans for an additional 4 oz of dry whole wheat orzo or choose to use 8 oz uncooked wholesome starch/grain, including wild or brown rice, bulgur wheat, sweet potatoes, or any other whole wheat pasta, cooking prior to using in salad. Enjoy!

Dana Point Times April 22-28, 2022

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Local Knowledge

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Local Knowledge SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Ask Serra Sol Susie Peterson, Executive Director of Serra Sol Memory Care in San Juan Capistrano, answers real questions from families who are considering memory care for their loved ones.

“My mom was recently diagnosed with dementia. She lives at home with my dad, and I pitch in to help as well.

She’s doing ok right now, but I’m starting to think about the future. How will I know when it’s time to move her from her home to a community? Should I start looking now, even though we may be years away from a decision?”

You’re doing the right thing by thinking about the future now – before your mom actually needs it! Making plans before your need becomes urgent is key. That way you aren’t forced to make a quick decision when the time does come.

What will drive a move to a community revolves around two things – health and safety. If your mom starts to exhibit behaviors that are not safe – such as exiting the house and getting lost, attempting to cook but starting fires instead – those types of things will likely mean a move will help keep her safe. If she starts to be confused on time, and isn’t getting good restful sleep, it may also be time to pursue a community. If she needs help bathing, toileting or managing medications and that’s more than what you and your dad can manage, you may then need to consider a move. Speaking of health, remember to consider your dad’s and your own.

Often, focus is primarily on the person with memory loss

Local Knowledge

and a caregiver’s health is ignored. A decline in the health of a caregiver may prompt the decision to move as well.

To get started, do your research. Think about what’s important to your family – cost, location, room choices, activity offerings and more. Chances are that someone you know has experience with a memory care community in your area. Ask for recommendations and consult your local Aging Services organization for help. Once you narrow your list to a handful of communities to consider, tour several so you can compare. Put yourself in your mom’s shoes – does it seem like a place where she’ll be happy and thrive?

At the same time, consider how you will pay for care. Most communities are private pay only, but some do take state or federal benefits. Ask if your parents have long term care insurance, savings, or veteran’s benefits. If you find a few communities you’re interested in, you might consider getting on their wait list.

This usually involves placing a deposit (typically refundable).

Best of luck with your search. I know it’s a difficult choice to make.

Do you have a question for the experts at Serra Sol? Visit our website at serrasol.com or call us at 949.485.2022. We’ll be happy to help you!

31451 Avenida Los Cerritos, San Juan Capistrano, CA, 949.485.2022, SerraSol.com, RCFE: 306005946

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

The Importance of Gum Health Good oral hygiene is the foundation for the health of your entire body, particularly as one ages. Lack of attention to oral hygiene by failing to brush twice daily and floss at least once a day, may lead to periodontal disease. Genetics, hormonal changes, medications, smoking, immunosuppression, and diabetes are also risk factors that contribute to the development of periodontal disease. 80% of Americans will be afflicted with periodontal disease by age 45, and 4 out of 5 patients with the disease are unaware they have it. Periodontal disease increases with age and 70% of adults 65 years and older have periodontal disease.

What is periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease is characterized by the inflammation of gum tissue, presence of disease-causing bacteria and infection below the gum line. Infection and bacteria in the mouth can cause bone loss, tissue recession and even tooth loss. These infections and bacteria can spread beyond the mouth and lead to disease in other parts of the body.

Treatment may include deep cleanings, LANAP (laser assisted new attachment procedure), bone regenerative therapy or gum grafting to restore and strengthen tissues that have been damaged.

When should you see a Periodontist? · Unexplained bleeding while brushing or consuming food · Bad breath that continues despite thorough cleaning

Dana Point Times April 22-28, 2022

· Loose teeth or gum recession. (Oftentimes, bone loss may be associated with both of these conditions) · Related systemic health concerns such as diabetes, heart disease or osteoporosis.

Periodontists are highly trained surgeons with three-plus years of training beyond dental school. They work with your general dentist to improve esthetics and achieve optimum dental health. In addition to the treatment of periodontal disease, periodontists remove non-restorable teeth, replace missing teeth with implants, treat gum recession with grafts and re-contour gums (crown lengthening) to improve the restorations of existing teeth.

Dr. Raymond Wright is the Periodontist at San Clemente Periodontics & Implants. As a highly trained surgeon. Dr. Wright can perform the following Procedures: tooth extractions, crown lengthening, correction of gummy Smiles, gum/bone grafting, LANAP (laser assisted new attachment Procedure), LAPIP to help with failing/ailing implants, sinus lifts, and single tooth to full mouth dental implants. For more information or to schedule an appointment, go to scgums.com or call 949.361.4867 (gums).

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The Importance of a Smile

BY DR. HAMILTON LE A prosthodontist is a dentist who has completed dental school plus at least three additional years of advanced training and education in a prosthodontic graduate program. They specialize in treating and handling dental and facial problems that involve restoring missing teeth and jaw structures.

The term “prostho” means replacement and “dentist” means dealing with teeth. Essentially, prosthodontists are THE recognized experts when anything needs to be replaced in your mouth. This can range from a single tooth, multiple teeth, or all teeth and gums in the mouth. While many other dentists can do some of these treatments, prosthodontists are the specialists dedicated to this type of care.

Prosthodontists have advanced training in restoring and replacing teeth. Prosthodontists are considered the leaders of the dental treatment plan. They regularly lead teams of general dentists, specialists, and other health professionals to develop solutions for your dental needs.

They construct oral prostheses to replace missing teeth and associated oral structures with permanent fixtures, such as implant-supported prostheses, crowns and bridges, or removable fixtures such as dentures and removable partial dentures. These specialists also restore function and aesthetics to traumatic injury victims, and to individuals with diseases or birth defects.

Choose a prosthodontist because of their advanced education and training, efficiency, and expertise with advanced technology. Prosthodontists are extensively trained in state-of-the-art techniques and procedures for treating complex dental conditions and restoring optimum function and esthetics.

Rigorous training and experience give prosthodontists a special understanding of the dynamics of a smile and the preservation of a healthy mouth.

Dr. Hamilton Le is a board certified prosthodontist and is part of the San Clemente Periodontics & Implants team located at the mouth of Talega in San Clemente, He is a native of Southern California who attended UC Berkeley for his undergraduate training.

After earning his Bachelor’s Degree, he moved to Boston where he attended dental school and a prosthodontics residency at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. As the leading prosthodontist in South Orange County, Dr. Le’s commitment to dentistry and patient care is the foundation for his treatment philosophy, providing you the necessary information to understand your dental needs and concerns. For more information, visit scgums.com or call 949.361.4867.

danapointtimes.com

Local Knowledge SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Chinese Medicine and Craniosacral Therapy—Return to Health Both ancient Eastern Chinese Medicine and modern Western CranioSacral Therapy believe in the inner capacity of the human body to heal itself when it returns to an optimum state of balance. Here, I will attempt to clarify what I found to be the essence of that secret.

Through pain, discomfort and internal diseases, our bodies communicate with us, trying to articulate the message that something is wrong. The inner voice communicates with us through the conscious mind about reasons why we are not well. Becoming aware of this inner voice is a self-discovery that leads to self-healing.

The art of CranioSacral Therapy is in allowing the patient to make his or her own discoveries. The act of touching, the physical contact between a therapist and the patient, allows to establish the communication to facilitate that process. True healing goes deeper than symptoms; it involves getting clarity about your real identity and purpose in life. Effective therapy gives the patient a clear vision of what he or she needs to do.

Energy Flow is an essential element of many Eastern practices and is the basic concept of Chinese Medicine and Craniosacral Therapy. Flow can be present or absent on physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual levels. Craniosacral Therapy is a Western Holistic Modality based on osteopathy, which optimizes the Flow of energy through the body. The name refers to the Craniosacral Rhythm from the head (cranium) to the tailbone (sacrum). The rhythmic movement is generated by pressure changes through the head and spine during the production and absorption of cerebrospinal fluid; its subtle flow indicates the harmony or disharmony of the whole person. A CranioSacral practitioner is skilled to sense the movement or restrictions in the body and restore the proper Flow.

By restoring the balance and normal Flow, a craniosacral therapist assists the patient to facilitate the self-healing process. CranioSacral Therapy became an integral part of my practice. As of today, I have not seen anything more powerful than those two arts combined, allowing me to facilitate the healing process. With gratitude, I feel privileged to practice both.

About Vera Bogomolny, DACM, LAc., CMT, CST-T DrVera Bogomolny.com Vera holds a Doctoral Degree from Pacific College of Oriental Medicine San Diego, she is a California and Nationally Certified Acupuncturist and Techniques Certified Craniosacral Therapist. She lives and practices in Dana Point.

She combines ancient Eastern Medicine with Craniosacral Therapy to help her patients to achieve optimal health. She empowers her patients to create the balance in their lives to acquire health. She believes health is not merely an absence of disease but is the ever-present state of a well-being.

Dana Point Times April 22-28, 2022

Cruise Ship Travelers Advised to Seek Best Personal Practices

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BY C. JAYDEN SMITH

ince the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020, punctuated by that year’s February outbreak on the Diamond Princess cruise ship, the vessels have been frequent targets of government and scientific scrutiny.

However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have gradually phased out restrictions placed on the industry, starting by lifting the no-sail order in October 2020 and recently moving cruise ship guidance to a conditional status.

Traveling aboard a cruise ship is still considered a health risk, but strict federal regulations on their operations are no longer in place.

It’s an exciting time for those who can’t wait to get back to seeing open waters and visiting all sorts of destinations, as well as for travel agents such as Ann Ronan at San Juan Capistrano Travel, who helps passengers along the way.

As Ronan tells it, the industry was hit hard by the pandemic and subsequent mandates, and cruise ship travel has only started to pick up speed within the past six months or so.

“It was a tough season for all travel, all hospitality,” she said.

Ronan went on her first river cruise since the pandemic began in August 2021, when countries across Europe also began to reopen travel. She calls the current state an exciting time for the cruise industry and the people who love taking voyages.

A significant milestone came in March, when the CDC lifted its advisory that people should not travel on cruise ships. Under CDC’s heavy guidance and protocols, which the Cruise Lines International Association followed along with major liners, vaccines were almost always required to board.

Now, travel agents including Ronan don’t provide blanket advice for all who come through their doors, but they instead have individual conversations and present the information necessary for potential travelers to make the best decision for themselves.

The vaccine requirements still remain, in addition to guidance that each person should take a COVID test before stepping onto a ship.

“Considering you’re going to be in an enclosed space with a lot of people, there’s not too many places we walk in, like the supermarket or a hotel or a convention, that we can say we know everyone’s vaccinated and pre-tested,” Ronan said. “So, you know you have that kind of knowledge.”

A different conversation may be necessary for those with compromised immune systems, as the risk still exists, but she added that the situation on cruise ships today is vastly better than two years ago.

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The benefit of being forced to minimize activity for such a long time and stay indoors is that the industry has seen signs of pent-up demand for travel, along with people being able to save money. People have identified their desire to see the world while they can, according to Ronan, which has also contributed to the returning popularity of cruise ships.

However, there are cases in which individuals remain concerned.

“I had a group of about 16 passengers who I booked last fall to go on an Alaska cruise this May,” Ronan recalled.

“When (the) omicron variant started to peak in December (and) January, I had several of them cancel. That made them nervous; they just weren’t ready, and that was fine. I mean, that was a choice they made. They were just not comfortable.”

Regarding cancellations, the consequences that come with backing off a trip have differed in recent years. In the past, Ronan said, there were no penalties and people got their deposits back if they canceled several months before a trip; within 90 days, people would lose more money the closer to the trip’s start date, if they canceled.

Cruise ship companies were forced to be more lenient and flexible during the height of the pandemic, giving people money back on their credit cards or a cruise credit as an incentive to keep their business with the company.

(Cont. on page 20) danapointtimes.com

Getting Flexible with Chair Yoga

C

BY BREEANA GREENBERG hair Yoga is a gentle way for seniors to stretch and still receive many of the benefits of yoga for those with mobility limitations. Chair Yoga modifies and adapts traditional yoga poses so that they can be done from a comfortable seated position.

Practicing seated yoga helps to improve one’s self-awareness through mindfulness.

This meditative practice is a great way to connect one’s movement to their breathing and can work as a way to check in on oneself and ask, “How does my body feel?” and “What areas of my body need more attention, movement, stretching?”

Yoga instructor Jennifer Mussaw teaches a slow flow vinyasa class at YogaSix in Dana Point and teaches Chair Yoga privately.

POWER OF LOVE Columnist Tom Blake continues to document Love After 50 and his own secrets to aging well

BY ZACH CAVANAGH Romance is an ever-evolving facet of life that is never easy for anyone to get a true handle on with the changes that come at us, whether it’s new technology or a new personal chapter.

For nearly 28 years, Tom Blake has seen those changes and documented them as the author of his “On Life and Love After 50” newspaper column, which gives an older “aging well” crowd his perspective on romance, dating and relationships after the mid-century mark. Since 2011, Blake’s columns have appeared in the San Clemente Times, Dana Point Times and The Capistrano Dispatch.

Blake’s column started out as personal Dana Point Times April 22-28, 2022

YogaSix will be opening soon at Prado West.

“Yoga isn’t about holding crazy poses for a long time or being the best in the room,” Mussaw wrote in an email. “It’s about letting yourself enjoy each posture, connecting to your breath, and growing as a human being on and off the mat.”

Chair Yoga offers many of the same benefits of yoga while being accessible to just about everyone.

“Chair Yoga is an adaptive take on the traditional practices that offers full support and protection when moving through poses,” Mussaw said. “Individuals still benefit from moving, stretching, and building muscles by staying seated in a chair or using a chair for balance while standing.”

This form of yoga, she added, does still offer physical and mental benefits through intentional breathing and supported movement.

Managing your stress through Chair Yoga can help improve sleep. Checking in with oneself and bringing more awareness to one’s

notes kept when his then-wife moved out with no notice and during the divorce that followed. Six months later in July 1994, those notes became his first column.

Over the course of those nearly three decades, Blake, now in his 80s, has been able to track the rise of the internet in older dating circles, which brings waves of positives and negatives.

“When dating sites started to happen, most people 50 and older that meet, meet online,” Blake said. “It’s easier to reach out and meet more people, but it’s difficult, because you have scammers and false profiles. You’re dealing with new issues.”

Some of those issues for the older dating crowd are simply a problem of ratios and the actual number of available partners.

“For women, it becomes more difficult,” Blake said. “When we were in our early 50s, the ratio is about 1 to 1. For women in their 70s, it’s now 5 or 6 to 1. I hear more and more questions about how to meet somebody from women than men.”

While those difficulties can turn anyone off from the enterprise of dating altogether,

breathing and body helps to decrease stress and feel more connected to the body.

An easy way to create that connection through seated yoga is to sit comfortably on a sturdy chair with your feet planted firmly on the floor and bring one hand to your belly and the other to your chest.

As you breathe deeply, focus your attention on breath and body, feel your chest and belly move with each deep inhale and exhale. This mindfulness practice is an easy introduction into Chair Yoga and can help decrease stress and improve sleep.

“During yoga, participants are taught to become aware of their thoughts and emotions,” Mussaw said. “This methodical mindfulness can help seniors stay connected to the world around them. Some studies suggest there might be a link between slowing dementia and regularly practicing yoga.”

Getting your body moving through seated yoga can help relieve aches and pains by stretching out stiff joints and muscles. Chair Yoga exercises can also help seniors get more flexible and relieve muscle pain.

By alleviating stress, gentle seated yoga flows can help decrease inflammation and pains caused by muscle and joints wearing down, Mussaw said.

“Stiff joints and muscles are common among the elderly,” Mussaw said. “Yoga is gentle and effectively increases flexibility and range of motion.”

Mussaw explained that yoga can be helpful to improve balance and stability, which many seniors struggle with as they age.

“Yoga helps to strengthen the core muscles that support us for most of our everyday activities,” Mussaw said. “A strong core can also help reduce the risk of falling.”

Mussaw explained that many of the poses in Chair Yoga can help increase mobility as well. Moving through “cat-cow,” in which you roll your head down to your chest and round your spine and then roll your head back and arch your spine, helps practice extension and flexion of the spine. Seated side bends and

spinal twists, using the chair as leverage, can also help alleviate a stiff back.

Another pose that can help increase hip mobility is practicing lifting your legs up off the floor while in a seated position. You can also use yoga straps for an extra stretch, wrapping the strap around your foot to help hold your leg up and really stretch those muscles.

“I see more strengthening and hip mobility, which is the biggest thing, because if you’re locked in your hips, it’s really hard to do that motion,” Mussaw said. “So, strengthening not only your legs, but the muscles inside of your ankles to help you balance can also be weak.

So just working those, even just lifting one leg.”

The chair can also be used as support for standing poses. With the chair working like a safety net, seniors can still practice standing poses while using their chair as support.

“Instead of forward folding, you use the chair in front of you; you’re kind of leaning forward, your hands on the chair, still feeling the nice release in your lower back,” Mussaw said.

“It’s just a safer way to move through poses, especially if you have balance problems.”

Many seniors struggle with getting in and out of chairs. Practicing that movement and hovering over your seat in a squatted position can help strengthen glute and hip muscles, which can help make getting in and out of chairs easier.

“You can also use the chair for challenges, so like hovering over the chair, instead of using an actual chair pose, or you just kind of float in the air and flow over the chair and then just say OK, release; let them sit in a chair,” Mussaw said. “So, you’re still kind of challenging, but there’s just a safety net of having the support.”

Mussaw said she sees the most improvement in mobility with her students who practice Chair Yoga. While YogaSix does not offer a Chair Yoga class, it does offer slow vinyasa flow classes that are popular with seniors.

The studio offers modifications for those struggling in any pose and works to support individual needs.

Blake stresses that a romantic partner in your later years isn’t the be-all, end-all. The most important relationship to find might just be the companionship of others.

“It certainly can alleviate the loneliness that so many older people face,” Blake said of finding a romantic partner. “But I wouldn’t want to send the message that you need to have a mate to be happy in life. So many people have realized they’re not going to find a mate, so they have to make themselves happy with activities and friends. They can make it without somebody, but it’s the loneliness that inspires most people.”

Luckily for Blake, he hasn’t had to go

through his journey alone. Just four years after that first column was published, Blake found a new love. While he was the owner of Tutor & Spunky’s Deli in Dana Point, a woman named Greta came in and ordered a fresh glass of carrot juice. Blake was bold enough to come out from behind the counter and ask her to dinner, and the two have been together ever since.

In that time, Blake discovered his own secrets to “aging well.”

“When I sold my deli in 2015, I sat down and said what is going to be important to me,” Blake said. “The priority for me is keeping fit, getting out.”

Blake said that he loves exercising around Dana Point Harbor, where he paddleboards four to five times a week.

Blake said his second key is keeping his mind active and challenged. Writing the column does that, as well as “these doggone Sudoku puzzles,” which he completes three or four of a day.

Whether it’s in search of a romantic partner or that “aging well” secret, Blake believes keeping yourself motivated and active is the way to success.

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danapointtimes.com

Dana Point Times April 22-28, 2022

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Mission San Juan Capistrano Volunteers Stay Happy, Active

I

BY COLLIN BREAUX f you’ve visited Mission San Juan Capistrano, you may have noticed tour guides in distinct red and black outfits teaching people about various aspects of the site’s history or avid horticulturists dutifully working in the gardens to keep the grounds’ trademark greenery looking lush.

These people are volunteers and serve as docent tour guides and Gardening Angels—and are an integral part of Mission operations.

Most of the people who serve in these roles are older, and they are motivated to help out because of their past role as educators. And some just simply want to be involved in their local area.

“I’ve been here at the Mission for about seven years. As far as aging well is concerned, you have to keep active both physically and mentally,” said docent Mary McRoberts. “One of the ways to really keep active and enjoy (life) is to be a docent here at the Mission. It is not only giving back to the community, but the Mission gives back to you in many ways—spiritually, physically and mentally, enjoyment.”

Docent Donna Friess—who is also well-known in San Juan Capistrano as an author, historian, and equestrian—said relaying information to Mission visitors helps keeps her mental acuity sharp.

“Some of the tours are an hour and a half long, and to keep all of our facts straight and all of the names and all of the indigenous people’s names, it requires a mental sharpness,” Friess said. “I think it’s good for us.”

Ed Matthews, another docent, said his doctor told him right before he retired that he still needed to keep his brain active.

“Otherwise, you’re losing your mind literally. This, actually, it’s a continuous learning opportunity,” Matthews said. “Every week, I’m learning something different, because I’m going around to talk to another docent or even the people.”

Whenever Matthews gets a question and doesn’t know the answer, he sees it as an opportunity to research the issue.

“Going to a place like the Mission, it’s the opportunity to go to a very peaceful environment.

It’s not very hectic. It’s not Disneyland, where you’re pushing and shoving and everything else,” Matthews said. “You can just wander around and sit and relax.”

Docent Martin Paine said the Mission remains a welcoming place to all, particularly due to his docent peers.

“There’s a lot of good feelings as you come onto this property,” Paine said. “Even a slow saunter through the Mission is one of those empowering experiences. Nothing is more impactful to me, at least, than seeing a little fourth-grader pull out their wallet, take a couple of dollars, and go to that poor box and put that up.”

Dana Point Times April 22-28, 2022

CRUISE SHIP TRAVELERS ADVISED TO SEEK BEST PERSONAL PRACTICES (Cont. from page 17)

Docent tour guides and Gardening Angel volunteers help keep visitors informed and greenery looking lush at Mission San Juan Capistrano. (From left) Jan Sorensen, Maria Leinenweber, Donna Friess, Mary McRoberts, and Martin Paine.

Photo: Courtesy of Mission San Juan Capistrano Executive Director Mechelle Lawrence Adams

Docent Maria Leinenweber—who was born and raised in Los Angeles County, and was a volunteer for more than 10 years at the Autry Museum of the American West in Griffith Park— chose Mission San Juan Capistrano out of all the other missions in California because of the serene and spiritual feeling on-site.

“When I knew I was going to move down here, my goal was to find something similar that I could fulfill,” Leinenweber said. “I’m a Catholic, so the religious feeling that I get every time I walk into the chapel … it was life-altering for me that I could find something down here that was similar to what I was doing up there but moved me in a different path.”

Mission San Juan Capistrano is special because of the grounds, how it gives the feel of what an old-time mission was really like, and because of the tours given and level of research done by docents, Leinenweber said. Docents tailor their tours to their audiences, whether they’re children or adults.

Docents go through intensive training, Friess said. That training can last three or four months, and requires prospective volunteers to shadow a current docent for several different tours. They then have to “pass the watch,” which Friess likens to giving a doctoral dissertation.

“Then we would be on our own. There’s certain points in the Mission we have to cover,” Friess said. “I personally start with the Acjachemen people and long ago, and I personally put my guests in a time machine. We go way back before the Spaniards come, and then, eventually, the Spaniards arrive—and then I go into the industrial era.”

McRoberts also makes sure to emphasize the Acjachemen people during her tours, since they have been “ignored” in much of California history.

Matthews likes to discuss the industrial era, a

Page 20

time when living conditions changed for people.

“The Spanish came and introduced (native people) to how to make metals. (Those talks are about) getting (visitors) to understand how that changed and how they have other tools and methods for doing things,” Matthews said. “One of the things, too, is getting them to understand before the Spanish came, there was no cow here. There were no horses here.”

Paine likes to emphasize to visitors that the arrival of Europeans in California is akin to a flying saucer landing in the middle of the intersection nowadays.

“When the Spanish arrived here, (the native people) had been a hunter-gatherer society for thousands of years. Everything was right at their fingertips,” Paine said. “For the first time, they see a cow. They see the horse. They see a European soldier with a leather jacket and the spears and lancers and the chief that came. For the first time, they see a wheel. They see a cart carrying in all this heavy equipment.”

Docents also work at corporate events hosted at the Mission—during which they may have to even define what a mission is for outside guests.

As for the Gardening Angels, volunteer Jan Sorensen—who studied landscape design in school—said they’re a group that loves to work outdoors.

“The visitors just adore the gardens. The Gardening Angels love to be able to provide this,” Sorensen said. “We’re a very special group.

We’re very devoted to each other, and we’re a close-knit group. We all love the Mission, and we all love the gardens.”

Volunteers also socialize and are friendly with each other, which creates a camaraderie.

“We’re the grandparent age here, and we were at the center of the family’s universe,” Friess said.

“You can’t help but be moved toward the periphery. This is a way to stay engaged in life.”

“Even now, you can cancel closer to the cruise sailing and not have penalties,” said Ronan. “That hasn’t really changed yet, and it will maybe if things straighten out more, but right now, they’re still giving more flexibility than they had in the past.”

When working with clients, she stays constantly informed on the COVID status of the countries they want to go to, and advises anyone else who is thinking of traveling to keep a watchful eye out for any impactful news.

People who want to travel can often have too many life responsibilities to do the proper research to make their vacations the best they can possibly be. Travel agents, who are familiar with the wide variety of cruise liners and which are best suited for a family or luxury trip, can be a valuable asset to help make decisions quickly.

“Once you’ve decided on the itinerary and the type of cruise line that fits your personality and your budget, you and your travel advisor can work together to just keep up on what the latest COVID guidelines are,” Ronan said. “The cruise lines have been terrific about sending customers updates constantly about what the requirements are.”

The CDC still has a page dedicated to guidelines designed to keep cruise ship passengers safe.

Passengers are advised to check their cruise ship’s color and vaccination status classification and get a COVID-19 viral test within three days of leaving and returning from trips. Before boarding, the CDC recommends people purchase travel insurance and check if their cruise line requires proof of vaccination.

Do not travel if sick, if you have recently tested positive for COVID-19, or if you have been in close contact with someone sick with COVID-19 and have been advised to quarantine.

Follow the ship’s mask-wearing protocols, and protect other passengers by washing your hands often and avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. After returning from your trip, self-monitor for any symptoms for up to 10 days, and follow state and local travel recommendations. danapointtimes.com

Dana Point Times April 22-28, 2022

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Dana Point Times April 22-28, 2022

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DP LIVING

GUEST OPINION | Wellness & Prevention by Amy Neville

Adolescents and the Dangers of Illicit Fentanyl

I

n the past several years, fentanyl has infiltrated the illicit drug market. For most of us who don’t use drugs recreationally, this seems like a benign fact. For parents with adolescents, the danger may seem like a distant mirage to ignore, but it’s a topic all parents must discuss with their children.

For the better part of a century, we witnessed a drug war that took its toll on the most vulnerable. Drug abuse occasionally ruined lives or very occasionally took lives. The stigma against drugs ignores the truth that a majority of Americans have tried drugs and a small but significant proportion regularly use and may become addicted.

With that in mind, many of us have been complacent in our view of illicit drugs. That complacency is also what killed my son, Alexander.

As 40-something parents, we thought we knew everything about the current drug landscape. Cannabis is stronger; pain killers and others are still around.

We knew that, and we spoke with Alex about the dangers and worked hard to be there for him daily.

Alex was 14 and was just starting summer vacation after that rocky COVID-19 semester in 2020. He was supposed to go with me to an appointment one morning. When he didn’t come down from his room, I went to get him and instead found my baby motionless on the floor.

My husband ran upstairs and began CPR until EMTs arrived—to no avail.

That was the first time we heard about illicit fentanyl.

After the deputy sheriff left with little more than condolences, my sister and a narcotics task force showed up to take inventory. We finally learned about the new drug landscape. There’s an analogy called the “chocolate chip cookie” to explain what happened.

Illicit fentanyl is mixed into nearly every illegal substance. Most cocaine and heroin, and some street marijuana, are laced with fentanyl. All pills outside of a pharmacy are guaranteed to have illicit fentanyl instead of whatever they’re pressed to look like.

Fentanyl is cheap and easy to produce, and it is considered 50 to 100 times stronger than opioids of the same weight. Adults can take 30-50 milligram Dana Point Times April 22-28, 2022

pills of oxycodone, if prescribed. Fentanyl requires 1,000 times less to achieve the same feeling: 30-50 micrograms. At 2 milligrams, fentanyl can be lethal.

For drug cartels and legitimate pharmaceutical companies, the allure of fentanyl is inescapable.

Traditional opioids WELLNESS & have natural origins PREVENTION in the poppy plants.

BY AMY NEVILLE Production involves major risks and costs. Fentanyl, made in a lab, has very little risk, very little cost.

That’s where the chocolate cookie comes in. Again, it only takes a miniscule amount of fentanyl to achieve the same effects, so it’s important to mix thoroughly. FDA-approved medical use manufacturers have precision equipment to accomplish this task.

Black market entrepreneurs use wooden spoons like they’re making cookies.

And just like when you mix a bag of chocolate chips into the batter, you cannot depend upon each cookie getting an even amount of chips.

Imagine the one in two adolescents who experiment with drugs. How do they know which drugs are safe? They don’t, and they can’t.

Of the 105,000 known U.S. drug-related deaths in 2021, the majority were attributed to illicit fentanyl. In the U.S., drug-related death is the greatest threat to the 18-49 age demographic—greater than heart disease, cancer, automobiles, and guns. Adolescents are currently the fastest growing demographic to be impacted by drug-overdose deaths.

Orange County has seen a rise in drug-related deaths from 2016 to 2021 of 1,600%—making fentanyl the single biggest killer of youth 17 years old and under.

The best solution is to educate and help move drug use out of its stigma so we can help. Many local high schools are offering education for parents and students, and ongoing conversations at home can save lives.

If you are concerned about someone’s substance use or you would like help with how to start a conversation, please contact the Wellness & Prevention Cen-

Photo: Courtesy of Los Angeles Public Library

FROM THE ARCHIVES Pictured are people camping on a beach in Dana Point in 1938.

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

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

ADOPTABLE PET OF THE WEEK

Ava

ter at info@wpc-oc.org.

Amy Neville is a yoga and fitness instructor, small business owner, president of Alexander Neville Foundation (ANF), and mother of two from Laguna Niguel. Since losing her son, Amy has devoted her time to continuing to raise her daughter and

Page 23

See the solution in next week’s issue.

DANA POINT TIMES

Seven-year-old Ava is the epitome of sweet.

Ava has a wonderful disposition, likes meeting new people, and is happiest when she’s by your side. Mild-mannered and oh, so lovable, this scruffy girl would make a spectacular family pet.

If you are interested in adopting Ava, please visit petprojectfoundation.org/adoptions/ 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.

bringing greater awareness of fentanyl to the general public. 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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LOCALS ONLY

BUSINESS LISTINGS AUTO REPAIR

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

COFFEE SHOP

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

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ARE YOU HAPPY? Let us assist you in creating a life plan for the life & relationships you want & deserve. Body Mind Spirit, 949.248.7377, bodymindspirit.com CAFE - DELI

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

ICE CREAM

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

INSURANCE SERVICES

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

Want your business or service to be featured here?

Call Lauralyn Loynes for pricing and details at 949.388.7700, ext. 102

CLASSIFIEDS SUBMIT YOUR CLASSIFIED AD AT DANAPOINTTIMES.COM

GARAGE SALES GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE Email your listing to info@danapointtimes.com.

Deadline 12pm Monday.

SAN CLEMENTE COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE – SATURDAY, APRIL 23 Saturday, April 23rd - 7 am to 11:30 am, Forester Ranch-Flora Vista Neighborhood. X-streets Calle Sarmentosa, Camino Del Rio, Camino De los Mares.

Clothing, electronics, tools, kitchenware, workout equipment and much more!

ANNUAL RUMMAGE SALE APRIL 22ND & 23RD 8am to 2pm. Clubhouse at Capistrano Valley Mobile Estates. 26000 Avenida Aeropuerto, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 Vintage items, clothing, household goods, small furniture.

TALEGA ANNUAL COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE – SATURDAY, APRIL 23 Saturday, April 23rd – 8 am to 12pm

Dana Point Times April 22-28, 2022

Over 100 participating home. There is a map posted on www.talegatoday.com that highlights all the streets that have one or more garage sales. Come check out the great deals!

GARAGE SALE - SATURDAY, APRIL 23 8:00 a.m - 12:00. 65 Camino Lienzo San Clemente, 92673. Selling Hardware Scales. David Winter Villages Household & decorator items.

HELP WANTED SMOG TECHNICIAN Star Smog Station in San Clemente looking for a full-time smog technician.

Please call Danny at 949-235-6366

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Then you need to be in the DP Times.

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DP LIVING

GUEST OPINION | Life’s a Beach by

Shelley Murphy

’Tis the Season!

R

elax, the calendar is correct; it’s not yet time to deck the halls with boughs of holly, but it is time to celebrate spring’s seasonal tradition and adorn the graduates with caps and gowns.

Next month kicks off graduation season, first with nationwide collegiate ceremonies; then, after Memorial Day, high school graduations commence.

I’ve attended gobs of graduations and watched both my boys cross distinguished stages, don mortarboards, and turn colorful tassels.

And in two weeks, I’m proud to do it once again when my younger son receives his Juris Doctor degree.

I’m looking forward to the pageantry of pomp and circumstance, but am also not quite sure what to expect at his ceremony.

LIFE’S A BEACH I know this comBY SHELLEY MURPHY mencement won’t be like my boys’ graduations from San Clemente High School.

I’m not arriving hours in advance to find parking; I’m not waiting in a long line for gates to open; and I’m not sprinting toward bleachers in search of shaded seating nearest the football field.

That said, I do hope it’ll be as memorable as watching triumphant seniors cheer, wave, and strut around the track sporting sunglasses and smiles.

I’m certain the ceremony won’t resemble my sons’ graduations from the same college.

On each occasion, we squished among thousands of people packed into the university’s basketball arena where I sat, listening to a roll call of names and anticipating my sons’ arrivals.

I finally saw my sons among the crowds as their names were called and ended up watching each receive his diploma on the giant Jumbotron suspended above center court.

My younger son’s three years of law school zoomed by faster than I could’ve anticipated.

His first fall semester, he attended class on campus, and then like so many others, the pandemic pressed pause on his plans. My son is one of the countless students caught in the COVID boomerang.

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After spending 16 months attending classes remotely, my son moved home to finish his final year.

His return gave me a firsthand glimpse into law school and the brainy books brimming with mind-numbing and drawn-out verbosity.

As a 3L (I picked-up the lingo, too), my son satisfied most curriculum requirements, but still needed three course units. So, he rolled up his sleeves and signed up for a class requiring he analyze movies—important, lawyer-type movies.

Unlike the textbooks, this curriculum was right up my alley, and I often crashed his fun film class. I found justifiable cause (more lingo!) to spend afternoons with my son enjoying classics such as My Cousin Vinny. Alas, I’ll miss my law school days.

I’ll miss a lot when my son, once again, moves out of his childhood home.

I’ll miss sharing Wordle scores over morning coffee, seeing his car in the driveway as I turn onto our street, and playing spirited trivia games despite his winning every time.

My son’s move home for his last year of law school is one perk from the pandemic.

A sea change has swept our lives since he last resided at home as a high school student—we’ve both grown up.

Unlike his senior year, I haven’t spent our time together counting down all the “lasts” and pining for the past. Instead, I’ve focused on savoring and living in the moment.

This summer, after he’s moved, I won’t battle his bedroom door—opening and closing it, struggling against the heartbreaking void.

Instead, I’ll look inside and recall our idyllic afternoons spent crunching popcorn and watching movies—er, I mean, attending law school.

After graduation, my son travels hundreds of miles away to find his footing and navigate a new city, career, and circumstance.

I’m excited to watch my son step into his well-earned future.

This graduation season, I’m celebrating both a bittersweet ending and a joyous beginning.

In two weeks when my son graduates, I know what to expect: lumbering crowds, verbose speeches, and more than a few tears.

For more than 20 years, Shelley Murphy and her husband have lived in San Clemente, where she raised her two sons.

She’s a freelance writer and has been a contributor to the San Clemente Times since 2006. 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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PUBLIC NOTICES TO ADVERTISE: 949.388.7700, EXT. 111 • LEGALS@PICKETFENCEMEDIA.COM 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 CDP 22-0010: To establish a Short-Term Rental Program to regulate the permitting and operation of Short-Term Rentals in the City.

Project Number: Coastal Development Permit 22-0010 Project Location: Citywide Applicant/Owner: City of Dana Point, Community Development Department Environmental: This project is exempt from further California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) review consistent with State Code Sections 15162 and Categorical Exemptions Class 1 - Section 15301 – Existing Facilities.

Hearing Date: May 9, 2022 Hearing Time: 6:00 p.m. (or as soon thereafter as possible) 33282 Golden Lantern, Hearing Location: Dana Point, CA 92629 (Dana Point Council Chambers) All persons either favoring or opposing this proposal are invited to present their views on the above referenced project to the Commission at this hearing.

Note: If you challenge the action taken on this proposal in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City of Dana Point prior to the public hearing.

For further information, please call John Ciampa, Senior Planner, Community Development Department, 33282 Golden Lantern, Suite 209, Dana Point, (949) 248 3591.

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: Conditional Use Permit CUP21-0014: The applicant seeks approval to construct a 1,168 squarefoot addition and an attached three-car garage to a nonconforming duplex located in the Residential Single Family 4 (RSF 4) Zoning District at 34071 Calle La Primavera. A Conditional Use Permit is required for an addition greater than 10% of the gross floor area to a nonconforming use and a duplex tandem parking configuration, pursuant to Dana Point Municipal Code (DPMC) Sections 9.63.035(a) and 9.35.080(E)(4).

Project Number: Conditional Use Permit CUP21-0014 Project Location: 34071 Calle La Primavera (APN: 682-142-04) Applicant: Stan Andrade, Architect Property Owner: Manny Kim Environmental: The project is Categorically Exempt (Class 1 – Section Dana Point Times April 22-28, 2022

15301(e) – Existing Facilities) from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).

Monday, May 9, 2022 Hearing Date: Hearing Time: 6:00 p.m. (or as soon thereafter as possible) 33282 Golden Lantern, Hearing Location: Dana Point, California 92629 (Dana Point City Hall) All persons either favoring or opposing this proposal are invited to present their views on the above referenced project to the Commission at this hearing.

Note: This project may be appealed to the City Council. If you challenge the action taken on this proposal in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City of Dana Point prior to the public hearing.

For further information, please contact Belinda Deines, Principal Planner, at the City of Dana Point, Community Development Department, 33282 Golden Lantern, Suite 209, Dana Point, by calling (949) 248-3570, or via e mail: bdeines@danapoint.org.

PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20226631688 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: COASTAL WINE CONNECTION 34041 CALLE LA PRIMAVERA DANA POINT, CA 92629 Full Name of Registrant(s): PETER G JONES 34041 CALLE LA PRIMAVERA 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: 03/01/2022 /s/PETER JONES This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 04/06/2022.

Published in: Dana Point Times, April 22, 29, May 6, 13, 2022 PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20226631992 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: TUBE-ROSE HOME IMPROVEMENT 34122 GRANADA DR DANA POINT, CA 92629 Full Name of Registrant(s): RANDOLPH SHELDON ASHLEY 33105 TRADEWIND CT SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, CA 92675 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/RANDOLPH ASHLEY This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 04/08/2022.

Published in: Dana Point Times, April 22, 29, May 6, 13, 2022 PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ES-

TATE OF: Aaron B. Jacobs, aka Aaron Bennett Jacobs, aka A.B. Jacobs Case Number: 30-2022-01253389-PR-PW-CJC To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will and or estate, or both, of Aaron B. Jacobs, aka Aaron Bennett Jacobs, aka A.B. Jacobs A Petition for Probate has been filed by Robert L. Ward & Frank Condrey in the Superior Court of California, County of ORANGE. The Petition for Probate requests that Robert L. Ward & Frank Condrey be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

The Petition requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court.

The Petition requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: a. Date: June 16, 2022 Time: 2:00 p.m. in Dept: C08 b. Address of Court: 700 Civic Center Drive West, Santa Ana, CA 92701. (1) The court is providing the convenience to appear for hearing by video using the court’s designated video platform. This is a no cost service to the public. Go to the Court’s website at The Superior Court of California - County of Orange (occourts.org) to appear remotely for Probate hearings and for remote hearing instructions.

If you have difficulty connecting or are unable to connect to your remote hearing, call 657622-8278 for assistance. If you prefer to appear in-person, you can appear in the department on the day/time set for your hearing.

If you object to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

If you are a creditor or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California Statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

You may examine the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (Form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal

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of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.

Petitioner: GREGORY W. CABO, ESQ., LAW OFFICES OF GREGORY W. CABO Address: 1855 W. KATELLA AVE., STE 365, ORANGE, CA 92867 Telephone: (714) 771-2227 Published in: Dana Point Times, April 15, 22, 29, 2022 PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20226630151 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: POINT PAINTERS 33645 FLYING JIB DR DANA POINT, CA 92629 Full Name of Registrant(s): TYLER STEVENS 33645 FLYING JIB DR 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: n/a /s/TYLER STEVENS This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 03/17/2022.

Published in: Dana Point Times APR 15, 22 29, MAY 6, 2022 PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20226630413 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: TAY RAE 34300 LANTERN BAY DRIVE UNIT 30 DANA POINT, CA 92629 Full Name of Registrant(s) TAYLOR LABRIOLA 34300 LANTERN BAY DRIVE UNIT 30 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: N/A /S/TAYLOR LABRIOLA This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 3/22/2022.

Published in: Dana Point Times April 1, 8, 15, 22, 2022

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

• Fictitious Business Notice (FBN/DBA) • Name Changes • Lien Sale • Alcoholic Beverage License • Notice to Creditors • Petitions for Probate • Trustee Sale • Summons – Divorce – Civil • Annual Report • Non-Responsibility • Dissolution of Partnership

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

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

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

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

Dana Point Times April 22-28, 2022

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SPORTS & OUTDOORS

DOLPHIN REPORT

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, DANA POINT TIMES

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

Baseball Sets Up De Facto Playoff Series in Final Week The final guaranteed CIF-SS baseball playoff spot in the South Coast League will come down one final series in the last week of the regular season.

Entering Friday, April 22, Dana Hills (9-15) and Tesoro (17-7) each sit tied for third place in the league with a 3-5 league record and four games to play. On Friday, the Dolphins play at last-place El Toro, and the Titans play at league champion Capistrano Valley. Then, next week, Dana Hills and Tesoro lock in for three games to decide the last guaranteed playoff spot.

Dana Hills will play at Tesoro on Tuesday, April 26, and then host the Titans on Wednesday, April 27. The Dolphins will finish at Tesoro on April 29. Dana Hills is playing for a spot in the CIF-SS Division 1 playoffs, while Tesoro is ranked No. 3 in Division 4.

Don’t count out either Dana Hills or Tesoro catching up to second-place Mission Viejo, either. The Diablos are 1½ games ahead of the Dolphins and Titans at 5-4, but Mission Viejo finishes with a three-game set against Capistrano Valley. The Diablos could tie the Cougars for the league crown with a sweep, but Dana Hills or Tesoro could pass Mission Viejo if either wins out and the Diablos lose twice. Mission Viejo would hold the tiebreaker over Dana Hills or Tesoro, thanks to series wins over both.

Coming into this past week, the Dolphins hadn’t won a South Coast League game since their league opener against Mission Viejo on March 29. Dana Hills had won only once in the nine games since, with the win coming in its Ryan Lemmon Tournament opener on April 2.

Dana Hills was swept in three games against Capistrano Valley last week, with losses of 11-7, 6-1 and 4-3.

However, the Dolphins got some respite this week and leapfrogged El Toro out of last place in the South Coast League. El Toro came off a surprising sweep of Mission Viejo, but then Dana Hills posted a 7-2 win at El Toro on Tuesday, April 19. The Dolphins edged the Chargers, 5-4, at Dana Hills on Wednesday, April 20. El Toro’s regular season will be over after Friday’s home game.

Dana Hills will ultimately learn its playoff fate when the CIF-SS brackets are Dana Point Times April 22-28, 2022

The Dana Hills baseball team’s playoff hopes come down to a final series against Tesoro next week. The winner will likely grab the South Coast League’s third and final playoff spot. Photo: Zach Cavanagh

released on May 2. Division 1 wild-card games would be played May 4, and the first round is on May 6.

Boys Golf Pushes on in League Play The Dana Hills boys golf team has locked back in after a stumble to open South Coast League play.

The Dolphins are 13-2 overall and 3-2 in league play, with their only two losses coming against Tesoro in a pair of league-opening matches. Dana Hills and Tesoro split the league title and both matches last season, when Tesoro went on to win the CIF-SS Division 2 team championship. Dana Hills had bested Tesoro in earlier tournament play, but the Titans got the results when it counted most.

On March 17, Tesoro just edged Dana Hills in the South Coast League opener, 195-198, in the Dolphins’ home match at El Niguel Country Club. Tesoro took the win in grander fashion, 169-181 on March 22, on its home course of Arroyo Trabuco Golf Club.

Dana Hills has won five matches in a row since then. The Dolphins took a pair of nonleague home matches, 183-219 over Beckman on March 23 and 177200 over Aliso Niguel on March 29, and

following the spring break, Dana Hills swept San Clemente with a 193-207 win at Bella Collina San Clemente on April 12 and a 183-213 win at El Niguel.

This week, the Dolphins beat Capistrano Valley at home, 199-217, on Tuesday, April 19. The Dolphins also took on Capistrano Valley at San Juan Hills Golf Club on Wednesday, April 20, but results were not available at press time.

The Dolphins close out the regular season next week with a pair of matches against Mission Viejo. Dana Hills plays at Mission Viejo Country Club on Tuesday, April 26, and at El Niguel on Thursday, April 28.

The South Coast League Finals will be played May 2 and 3 at Arroyo Trabuco.

Roundup The Dana Hills swim teams will compete in the South Coast League championships next week. The Dolphins will swim at El Toro High School, with the prelims on Tuesday, April 26, and Wednesday, April 27, with the varsity finals on Friday, April 29 Dana Hills girls lacrosse has found itself in a playoff race. The Dolphins (4-9, 3-3) entered Thursday, April 21, tied for second in the Sea View League with Mission Viejo (3-11, 3-3). The Dolphins and Diablos

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played on Thursday, but results were not available at press time. Dana Hills hosts last-place Capistrano Valley on Monday, April 25, and hosts league champion El Toro on Wednesday, April 27.

Dana Hills boys lacrosse closes out its Sea View League schedule on Friday night, April 22. The Dolphins (2-11, 1-5) play at San Juan Hills and will finish third in the league. Dana Hills has one more game at home on Tuesday, April 26, against El Dorado.

Dana Hills softball is still searching for its first South Coast League win. The Dolphins (2-13, 0-3) tied their biggest offensive output of the season on Tuesday, April 19, but host Aliso Niguel denied Dana Hills in a 15-11 victory. The Dolphins played at San Juan Hills on Thursday, April 21, but results were not available at press time. Dana Hills closes out the regular season next week at home against Mission Viejo on Monday, April 25, and at Aliso Niguel on Wednesday, April 27.

Dana Hills boys volleyball remains winless on the season. The Dolphins (0-12, 0-7) closed out the regular season at Aliso Niguel on Thursday, April 21, but results were not available at press time. The Dolphins have lost their last 25 matches dating back to the pandemic-shortened 2020 season. DP danapointtimes.com

DP SURF

Leave Nothing but Footprints in the Sand How much does sustainability factor into your surf life?

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

I

t was Chief Seattle, leader of the Pacific Northwest’s Suquamish and Duwamish people, who is credited with saying, “Take only memories; leave nothing but footprints.”

He purportedly said the words, which have since become an environmental war cry, during a speech delivered in 1854. Others, including iconic open-space advocate John Muir, have also been credited with the quote. Either way, as surfers, the message is abundantly clear.

But how often do you stop to think about the environmental impact of your surfing and what can be done to make it a more sustainable pursuit? Who doesn’t love a new gleaming, white board? Or that first session in a fresh wetsuit? It’s a dream.

But our actions and purchasing decisions do make a difference, and there are things we can all do to help the ocean out a little.

The Ecoboard Project by the nonprofit group Sustainable Surf is a fantastic

Dana Point’s Pat O’Connell gets an introduction to new sustainable surfboard packaging materials from A New Earth Project founder Wes Carter. Photo: Courtesy of Peter King

example of innovation and pushing for positive change in surfboard construction materials and techniques.

“A standard polyester board weighing 5.75 pounds produces an additional 10 pounds of waste material nearly double the weight of the board. A 5.5 (pound) Ecoboard generates 5.9 pounds of waste material, which is still more material than the finished board itself,” reads a report on sustainablesurf.org. “This wasted resin and foam is a large factor in the total carbon footprint—40% for a ‘poly’ board and 22% for an Ecoboard.”

And when it comes to surfboards, make them last a little longer by fixing dings and keeping them watertight.

Maybe you don’t quite “need” that new board just yet.

If you are looking for a different feeling, swing by a shop such as Used Surf

in San Clemente and see what they have on the rack. They’ve got an incredible selection of second-hand boards, fins and other surf gear.

In the wetsuit department, companies including Matuse and Patagonia are pushing the industry away from the use of petroleum-based neoprene in exchange for less environmentally damaging materials.

Matuse has led the way in neoprene created from limestone, while Patagonia uses a material called Yulex. Both companies have also focused their design efforts to make their suits last longer. If you can get two or three seasons out of a suit, that’s going to save you a lot of money and a lot of space in the landfill.

Last week, I had the good fortune of attending the launch of A New Earth Project, which is focusing on packaging

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY CAPISTRANO VALLEY TOYOTA

SURF FORECAST

GROM OF THE WEEK

EDEN WALLA

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

B Eden Walla, pictured on the far left in a white jersey, is this week’s featured grom. Photo: Courtesy of NSSA

Dana Point Times April 22-28, 2022

materials used to ship surfboards and other surf gear. Via environmental supply chain solutions, its goal is to be part of the solution to remove plastics from the world’s oceans.

Industry heavy hitters such as Pat O’Connell, president of Florence Marine X, and Vipe Desai, executive director of the Surf Industry Members Association, were in attendance.

Across the board, the reaction to the new sustainable packaging products was overwhelmingly positive. After seeing the cardboard systems they’ve developed for surfboards, it was immediately apparent that this is the way forward.

“We’ve been able to test and refine a lot of different materials and technologies, and not only is what we devised recyclable and sustainable, but it’s more convenient for everyone from the surfboard companies to the consumers. The waste can go right into your curbside bin, and it’s fully recyclable,” explained Wes Carter, president of Atlantic Packaging and founder of A New Earth Project.

This week, the U.S. Board Riders National Championships are coming to Lower Trestles and will be presented by A New Earth Project and Quiksilver. Stepping into the future, it’s a new era in surf contests, as well as a new era in bringing sustainability to surfing.

The forecast looks as if there are some fun waves on tap for Friday and Saturday; see you down at the beach.

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 Picket Fence Media, 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

ig ups to all the local groms who cruised up PCH for the NSSA Southwest event in Huntington Beach over Easter weekend, and a special congratulations to San Clemente’s Eden Walla, who just won her first-ever NSSA event.

Taking out the Open Super Girls division, she made the most of the windy, spring conditions and came out on top.

Walla was joined on the podium by fellow San Clemente ripper Mia McLeish, who finished in the runner-up spot.

A supremely talented, hard-charging free-surfer who’s all about chasing empty waves and wide-open spaces with her family, Eden has been on a bit of a competitive tear as of late.

Prior to her breakout NSSA win, she made her presence known at the most recent WSA event, where she took first in the Under 14 and Under 16 divisions.

Eden and her brother, Zion, are also distinguished members of the San Clemente Board Riders and have contributed mightily to the club’s success both through their performances in the water and their stoke on the beach.

With Eden supported by incredible brands including Salty Crew, Electric Sunglasses, Surf Electric Bikes, Famous Surf Wax and Lost Surfboards, the sky truly is the limit for her. DP

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Water Temperature: 59-61 Degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: 10-12 Outlook: Building West/northwest swell joins in on Friday, setting up chest to head high waves, (4-5’), as it peaks in the afternoon. Unfortunately, moderate to gusty west winds will make for mainly poor surfing conditions much of Friday. Surf levels off in the waist to chest high range, (3-4’) for Saturday and Sunday. Winds are more favorable for the weekend, with light/variable flow in the mornings, followed by light+ to moderate afternoon onshores.

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