December 17, 2021

DECEMBER 17-23, 2021 | VOLUME 14, ISSUE 51

L O C A L

N E W S

Y O U

C A N

U S E

INSIDE: Local Author Offers Unique Take on Self-Help EYE ON DP/PAGE 4

South Coast Singers to Take the Stage Again GETTING OUT/PAGE 10

Guiding Light Del Prado Mural Pays Homage to Historic Lanterns E Y E O N D P/ PAG E 3

Artist Drew Merritt puts the finishing touches on his mural, “Guiding Light,” at Prado West, on Monday, Dec. 13. Photo: Courtesy of Austin Novy

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Fiesta Boat Parade of Lights Returns to Mixed Reviews

City to Complete Utility Box Public Art Program

California Reinstates Indoor Mask Mandate

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Dana Point Times December 17-23, 2021

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EYE ON DP

What’s Up With...

TOP NEWS DANA POINT SHOULD KNOW THIS WEEK

Del Prado Mural Pays Homage to Historic Lanterns

BY BREEANA GREENBERG

Artist Drew Merritt put the finishing touches on “Guiding Light,” a spray-painted, photo-realistic mural displayed at Prado West this week. Punctuating the completion of the mural, Merritt on Wednesday, Dec. 15, adorned the Del Prado Lantern Mural with his signature.

The mural, which will measure approximately 40 feet by 30 feet, is part of a larger art project called Art in Public Places that will involve rotating art halls and a performance by the Music Preserves Foundation.

“As a part of the Art in Public Places, we wanted to come up with something creative, like a multifaceted program instead of just spending all of it in one spot,” said Dylan Barreira, real estate analyst at Raintree Partners.

“It’s always been our vision to have a large-scale mural on this wall; as you can see, it lends really well,” Barreira said.

Raintree Partners, which owns the Prado West development, selected Merritt to design the mural overlooking Del Prado, facing the U.S. Post Office.

“When we saw Drew’s work, we’re like, that’s the one; we’re getting him to do this,” Barreira said. “And, I mean, his artwork was just amazing, like so realistic, like what he can do with paint cans is pretty incredible. So, as soon as we saw that, we’re like, yeah, we’re going with Drew.”

After submitting a few designs, Merritt, along with Raintree Partners, landed on the lantern design.

“Ultimately, you know, the lantern just felt right,” Barreira said. “Obviously, it’s a pretty unique component to Dana

California Reinstates Indoor Mask Mandate

BY SHAWN RAYMUNDO

California on Wednesday, Dec. 15, reinstated a month-long statewide mask mandate for indoor public spaces.

Health officials on Monday, Dec. 13, Dana Point Times December 17-23, 2021

Point—the Lantern District. You have all the lantern streets, and I think that’s a pretty cool piece of Dana Point, and it has a rich history to it. So, it’s kind of honoring that history and preserving that history, and obviously, some changes that are happening.”

Merritt added that he liked the idea of a lantern as a positive light in the darkness, like a guiding light. Merritt wanted to pay homage to the historic lanterns of Dana Point and has already had residents stop by, letting him know that the work resonated with them.

“I had a few people stop by the last couple days who were like, ‘Oh, like I grew up on Copper Lantern or Golden Lantern or down the street or whatever.’

And I was like, that makes me so happy,” Merritt said. “I really had to kind of dig deep and do a lot of research and stuff, and definitely wanted to do things for the locals… I wanted to not only do stuff for general people, but also for the people that grew up here.”

Merritt added that there’s an interesting juxtaposition to creating a photo-realistic mural from spray paint.

“Whenever I do murals, it’s with spray paint, but it’s in the same kind of oil painting style,” Merritt said, further explaining, “It’s taking something kind of classical in the sense of oil or traditional painting and then using a brand-new technique from the last 20 years or whatever.

“It would generally be used in graffiti, street-art type of thing,” he continued.

“It’s kind of putting a twist of that in with traditional, and doing something kind of new and a little bit old.”

The mural will also have an augmented reality (AR) component, a first for Merritt. A QR code displayed on a plaque below the mural will reveal, through AR, ships and dolphins behind the lantern.

“I’m excited for it,” Merritt said. “But the concept is that the lantern will be

Artist Drew Merritt puts the finishing touches on his mural, “Guiding Light,” at Prado West, on Monday, Dec. 13.

Photo: Breeana Greenberg

announced the latest masking order, which will remain in effect until Jan. 15 and comes as California’s daily COVID-19 case rate has risen by 47% over the past 2½ weeks. The order also comes on the heels of the coronavirus variant Omicron spreading throughout the world.

“We know people are tired and hungry for normalcy. Frankly, I am, too,” Page 3

casting shadows of different marine life, like different whales.”

After driving to Dana Point to begin the mural, Merritt said he fell in love with the city.

“After planning it all out, months and months of prep and figuring out the timeline, scheduling, and how execution and painting and artistic design and then AR and all of the different elements, I got down here, and I freaking love Dana Point,” a gushing Merritt said.

“This place is rad. I’ve driven through a few times; I’ve never spent a lot of time, but after spending a few days here, I love it,” he continued. “It’s one of my favorite places in California.”

Raintree Partners will be holding a soft opening for Prado Square in the first quarter of 2022.

City Council, in its Dec. 7 meeting, approved plans for another mural to be installed in Doheny Village.

The Doheny Village mural will be installed at the U.S. Post Office on the corner of Doheny Park Road and Las Vegas Avenue, using vinyl wrapping, similar to that used on the utility boxes throughout Dana Point.

The vinyl-wrapped mural, measuring 16 feet by 80 feet, is expected to last at least five years, with little fading or maintenance.

The Arts and Culture Commission hopes to hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Doheny Village mural in the first quarter of 2022.

California Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. Mark Ghaly said during a Monday press briefing. “That said, this is a critical time where we have a tool that we know has worked and can work.”

As of Thursday afternoon, Dec. 16, the state was seeing 13 COVID-19 cases per 100,000 people. In Orange County, it was 8.9 cases per 100,000, according to the

same data.

According to news outlets, travelers returning to or visiting California are advised to get tested three to five days ahead of arrival. And unvaccinated individuals looking to attend indoor events where there will be at least 1,000 people will have to provide a negative COVID-19 test within one or two days.

COMMUNITY MEETINGS TUESDAY, DECEMBER 21

Because I Love You (BILY) 6:30-8:30 p.m. The organization Because I Love You (BILY), which helps parents navigate through whatever parenting challenges they may be facing (e.g., failure to launch, drug abuse, disrespect), will continue conducting its weekly meetings on Tuesdays via Zoom video conference. For detailed instructions on how to participate, email bilysanclemente@gmail.com.

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EYE ON DP

Local Author Offers Unique Take on Self-Help

BY BREEANA GREENBERG

Twenty-four-year-old author Alexandra Russell feels that she is trailblazing a new genre, combining a psychological thriller with self-help to create a unique approach to mental health.

Russell, a Dana Point resident, published her first book, The Maze: Her Rude Awakening, earlier this year. The psychological thriller/self-help novel follows a young girl, abducted by a hypnotherapist and put into a labyrinth within her own mind through which she must navigate.

“The maze is a symbolic place within her own mind that represents what it physically feels like to go through depression, to have those really dark thoughts,” Russell said. “So, the point of the book is for her to navigate her way through the maze, find her way out of the maze alive, ultimately finding her truth within herself, peeling back her layers and feeling the depths of her ego, per se.”

The Maze serves as a self-help book as well. As the protagonist moves through the maze, she comes across different doors that represent characteristics, emotions, or limiting beliefs regarding depression, which she must come to terms with and reframe before she can continue on her journey.

“I do think The Maze has a really impactful story that it can leave on readers, not only a thrilling, exciting, scary story, but also

Alexandra Russell on Monday, Dec. 13, shows off her first book, The Maze: Her Rude Awakening, a psychological thriller/self-help novel, that, she says, is a unique approach to addressing mental health. Photo: Breeana Greenberg

something that they can take with them, lessons throughout the book that they can integrate into their own life, because it is a self-help novel as well,” Russell said.

Russell found that the psychological thriller genre worked well to represent the darkness that dealing with depression and working on one’s mental health can often feel like. She feels that she is carving out her own niche through the combination of the two, very different genres.

“I’m trying to really stick to these genres and kind of create something new, and hopefully that makes me stand out as an author,” Russell said. “And all my future books, I’m going to keep focusing

on these genres.”

Russell graduated from Dana Hills High School in 2015, and received her Associates Degree in Business and Entrepreneurship at Saddleback College.

The book was inspired by a nightmare Russell had as a freshman in high school.

“I woke up in the middle of the night screaming, but I was excited at the same time, because I love scary movies,” Russell said.“So, I was like,‘Oh, my God, that is going to be a movie one day, that’s going to be a book one day. I’m going to make it happen.’”

But it wasn’t until after her father passed away unexpectedly in 2018 that Russell finally put pen to paper.

Fiesta Boat Parade of Lights Returns to Mixed Reviews

BY BREEANA GREENBERG

Boats decked in red, green, yellow and blue lights, some sporting inflatable cacti and sombrero-wearing donkeys, cruised along the Dana Point Harbor last weekend for the Fiesta Boat Parade of Lights.

With the 46th annual Dana Point Boat Parade of Lights coming to a close this past Sunday night, Dec. 12, judges are now deliberating on winners for the various festive categories. The winners will be announced early next year.

This year’s boat parade ran for one weekend, from Friday-Sunday, whereas in the past, the boat parade has run for the first two weekends of December. With the first weekend of December falling immediately after Thanksgiving, the Marina at Dana Point felt that it would be challenging for boaters to be ready in time for the parade.

Boat No. 46, decked in colorful lights, sporting inflatable cacti and sombrero-wearing donkeys, cruised along the Dana Point Harbor last weekend during the Fiesta Boat Parade of Lights. Photo: Courtesy of Kelly Rinderknecht

Dana Point Times December 17-23, 2021

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“Something inside of me was just like screaming at me to start the story, like to create the book because I was sitting on it for years already, but something inside me after he passed away was just like, ‘You have to make the story,’” Russell said.

The Maze: Her Rude Awakening was published in June 2021.

“It actually hit the bestseller list on Amazon when it first released, which was super exciting as a new author,” Russell said.

Russell has begun to work on her next psychological thriller/self-help novel, Grief House. She is also in the process of publishing the second edition of her book. Russell wanted to update The Maze after looking back with the clarity that she’s gained from therapy since writing the book.

“This really just showed me where my mental capacity was at that time and how much I’ve grown since then, and how much I want to implement all my new knowledge into the second edition,” Russell said.

Russell uses her website, pearlizedspirit. com, as a platform for discussions on mental health and The Maze. She hopes that her book can help build a community for her readers.

“We’re all on our own journey, but it is definitely easier said than done,” Russell said. “Mental health, inner work, inner healing is a lot of hard work. It is one of the hardest things, I think, to ever do is to really come face to face with yourself. … I’m not expecting anyone to read this and be like, ‘You’re healed.’ No, but if it can help them along their journey, beautiful.”

As an offer for Dana Point locals, Russell will sign copies of the book for those who order through her website.

“We were excited to have the opportunity once again to host the parade,” said Kelly Rinderknecht, general manager of the Marina at Dana Point. “This year, it was the 46th annual Dana Point Boat Parade of Lights, and we carried over the theme, which was Fiesta holiday.”

The Fiesta Boat Parade of Lights had been announced at the 2019 award reception to be the following year’s theme; however, when 2020’s parade was canceled due to the pandemic, the Marina decided to carry on the theme to 2021’s parade.

The Marina at Dana Point, which took on parade-organizing duties in 2019, hopes to gain boaters’ input on next year’s theme, as well as whether the parade should run three days over one weekend or four days over two weekends.

“Of course, like the theme, we’re going to do a little bit more research and see what people want, what the boaters want and do it that way,” Rinderknecht said.

However, some boaters felt that they had nothing to celebrate this year.

“The spirit of Christmas in the harbor (Cont. on page 6) danapointtimes.com

Dana Point Times December 17-23, 2021

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EYE ON DP

Dana Point to Wrap Up Phase 2 of Utility Box Public Art Program

BY BREEANA GREENBERG

The Dana Point Arts and Culture Commission will complete Phase Two of its Utility Box Public Art Program, as the final box is set to be replaced and wrapped within the next couple of months.

According to the Arts and Culture Commission, the Utility Box Public Art Program was launched in mid-2020 to contribute to the vitality and attractiveness of Dana Point streetscapes. The commission chose artists to showcase their work and beautify nine utility boxes throughout Dana Point in Phase One and 14 utility boxes in Phase Two. The art designs cover all four sides and the top of the utility boxes, and are printed on vinyl.

One of the last utility boxes to be wrapped was on Pacific Coast Highway and Niguel Road. Commissioner Ashley Keene designed the art for the box, entitled “Arches over the Ocean,” which was wrapped sometime around Thanksgiving.

“Arches Over the Ocean” was inspired by the arches that were left over from an unfinished hotel in the late 1920s, when construction was abandoned because of The Great Depression.

“Over the course of the years of growing up in Dana Point, I would go over to that walkway and watch the sunset,”

(Cont. from page 4) this year, versus previous years, is so much less than what it was because of the pressure that’s being put on the various slip renters for slip increases or changes in policies and procedures and restrictions and fear of retribution,” said Wayne Addison, of Save Our Slip (S.O.S.). “The attitude, in general, is there’s nothing to celebrate.”

After supporters of S.O.S., a boater advocacy group, reached out to Addison and George Hughes of S.O.S. to ask the two live-aboard boaters what to do about the Dana Point Parade of Lights, the group landed on a few suggestions for boat owners.

“Don’t decorate and stay in your slip, or if you really must decorate because you have kids ... go ahead and decorate the boat but keep it in your slip; and if you are forced to go out in the parade by whomever and you feel somewhat reluctant to do it, but you’re going to do it anyhow, put a little sign up that says ‘Support the SOS, Save Our Slips,’ or Dana Point Times December 17-23, 2021

A utility box on Pacific Coast Highway and Niguel Road is adorned with art that Arts and Culture Commissioner Ashley Keene designed and titled “Arches over the Ocean.” Photo: Breeana Greenberg

other people, too.”

This isn’t the first utility box that Keene has designed. She designed artwork for the utility box on Coast Highway and Capo Surfside Inn, titled “The Salty Afterglow.” She also painted a utility box for San Clemente before, but preferred the vinyl wrapping done with Dana Point’s project, as opposed to directly painting on the utility box.

“It’s easier for them to put it up, it’s a little more affordable for the community and easier for me,” Keene said. “And then if it fades, you can rewrap it. So, I really liked that aspect of it and felt like they were probably able to get more diverse artists and participators doing the vinyl wrapping instead of just directly painting onto it.”

Keene added that she felt honored to be a part of the public art program.

“I feel like we’re so blessed to live in a community that really does care about arts and culture,” Keene said. “I’m blessed that I can be a part of it on the Commission now, but even before that, I felt like you don’t always see cities that want to bring out local artists or do these utility boxes … and it’s just nice to see people caring and enjoying it.”

Another utility box, on Mariner Drive and Niguel Road, was recently wrapped with art that Gina Hsiang designed and titled “Harbor Air.” One final utility box, on Pacific Coast Highway and Monarch Bay Plaza, awaits replacement before it can be wrapped in vinyl artwork.

Keene said. “You can walk through along the bluff over to Amber Lantern ... and I’ve just seen so many beautiful sunsets or even foggy days, I have so many

special moments in that area. So, I just figured it was one of those Dana Point scenes that I had to paint, because it meant a lot to me and I know a lot to

EDITOR’S NOTE: Go to the online version of this story to check out the complete list of where to find the designed utility boxes.

something like that,” Hughes said.

SOS also encouraged its supporters to boycott the boat parade.

“Well, it was a unity thing,” Hughes said. “This was an easy way for people to go ahead and protest that wouldn’t be necessarily identified. And it’s something as simple as ‘we had other plans for those nights.’ So, it was a way for them to do this anonymously.”

Hughes said that following last year’s hiatus due to COVID-19, and cash prizes offered to the winners of the boat parade, that one would expect there to be more participants than ever.

According to Rinderknecht, 70 boaters signed up to participate in this year’s parade. In 2019, the Marina had 84 participants.

“Throughout the years, I’ve been in the harbor 24 years, and I’ve seen the parade most of those years—all of them, I think—and it varies throughout the years. But typically, you’re going to find, you know, somewhere between 40 and 80

boats,” Rinderknecht said.

However, Addison and Hughes felt that morale in the harbor was down, as boaters struggled with the October slip increase. Hughes added that as a disabled Vietnam veteran, living aboard his boat in the harbor on a fixed income, he is facing eviction because he is unable to afford the increase in slip fees and living expenses.

“Why there has been a lack of participation in the boat parade this year is because most of the people in the harbor are realizing that this is not what the harbor used to be,” Addison said. “It’s now something that is for, what appears to be, for the privileged people, those who can afford it and not question these ridiculous price increases of 26% to 95%. The morale in the harbor is just terrible. So, you can’t expect an exciting, exuberant parade of participants if everybody’s getting the blues because of what’s going on.”

Among the festivities, however, Rinderknecht felt that the marina saw the

community come together to celebrate the holidays.

“There was so much festive excitement going on, particularly during the parade, and we were focused on that,” Rinderknecht said.“I didn’t notice anything out of the ordinary, I didn’t notice any, any protests or any boycotts. What we mostly saw was just excitement and enthusiasm in the harbor, the community coming out and having a reason to celebrate the season.”

Awards will be announced in early January. The categories are Best Overall, Fantastically Fiesta, Most Original, and Best Use of Lights/Music/Animation, which all come with a $1,000 cash prize for the winner and $500 for the runners-up.

Other awards will be People’s Choice, selected by the public from the Dana Point Harbor’s Instagram, Holiday Spirit, Best Powerboat, Best Sailboat, Best Under 30’, Supervisors Cup selected by the Fifth District Orange County Supervisor’s Office, and Mayor’s Cup selected by Mayor Joe Muller.

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Dana Point Times, Vol. 14 Issue 51. The DP Times (danapointtimes.com) is published weekly by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the SC Times (sanclementetimes.com) and The Capistrano Dispatch (thecapistranodispatch.com). Copyright: No articles, illustrations, photographs or other editorial matter or advertisements herein may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, art, photos or negatives. Copyright 2021. All rights reserved.

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Dana Point Times December 17-23, 2021

GUEST OPINION | Dana Point ROCKS

by Anthony Small

IT IS NEVER TOO LATE “I

t is never too late to be what you might have been” is one of my life’s philosophies, and it’s attributed to George Eliot, whose real name was Mary Ann Evans, an English novelist, poet and journalist.

Evans wanted to escape the Victorian era’s stereotype of women’s writing as being too lighthearted and frivolous, so she adopted the pen name to be taken seriously.

Today, anyone can create and be heard, and although women and people of color are still underrepresented in the arts and creative sector, significant progress is being made.

I encourage everyone to create and share their perspectives through art, music, and writing, if only for yourself.

You are putting something into the world that was not there before, something that may move or inspire others. The arts helps build and unify communities, and helps us understand other perspectives and cultures.

I recently attended the excellent OC Forum on The Future of Philanthropy in the Arts. It was hosted by OC Grantmakers Executive Director Taryn Palumbo, and included panelists who stressed that

Letter to The Editor ANOTHER RESPONSE TO ‘YOU CAN RUN, BUT YOU CAN’T HIDE’ RACHEL WALTERS, Dana Point In response to Rosemarie Allaire’s question about opposition to a COVID-19 vaccine mandate, I hear and understand your fear. I have immunocompromised family members who are triple-vaccinated, because that is the best choice for them.

Along with many parents, I am not opposed to the vaccine, but am to the mandate, especially when we have no long-term data on the effects on children.

In our schools, everyone is masked indoors, and unvaccinated teachers are tested weekly. CUSD COVID-19 cases are low, in a state with a low case rate.

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arts programs are not a frill or extra, but rather a solid investment in the community.

When we support the arts, it grows other segments of DANA POINT ROCKS the economy, driving

BY ANTHONY SMALL commerce to local business. Nationally, the arts is a $920 billion industry, and in California, the $233 billion industry accounts for more than 780,000 jobs.

I’m so grateful I had the opportunity to serve our community and our City Council on the City of Dana Point Arts and Culture Commission for more than four years, with my term ending this past June.

The experience launched me into this next chapter of my life as an arts advocate, CalArts grant review panelist and executive director of Music Preserves Foundation. Music Preserves programs share the rich cultural history of American music with schools and the community.

We couldn’t do that without the support of this very community, and I must express my sincere gratitude to the Dana Point Turkey Trot and participants for their very generous donations to Music Preserves and the Boys and Girls Club of Capistrano Beach, as we were beneficiaries and nonprofit partners of that world-famous event.

Also, thank you to our state’s CalArts grant program and OC Supervisor Lisa Bartlett’s Arts Related Nonprofit Grant Relief Program for their support in 2021.

Music Preserves will make its return to Capistrano Unified School District classrooms in January, as it begins the

10-week Music and Cultural History program at R.H. Dana Elementary. We also look forward to being a part of Raintree Partners Art in Public Places programs, which will include a stunning augmented reality mural, rotating art exhibits and music programs in Prado Square.

Looking back on this past year, the highlight had to be Eddie Vedder’s Ohana Festival, where we witnessed the unique power of live performances, and the audience and artists seemed to let out bottled-up emotions and clearly did not take each other for granted.

I look forward to Ohana and whatever other world-class events Live Nation has in store for us in 2022, and I also hope to see the return of the legendary Doheny Blues Festival.

Lastly, I’ve been recording my original songs with producer Matt Samia, accompanied by members of Mojave Ghost and the incredible Corey McCormick, bassist for Lukas Nelson and Promise of the Real.

Mojave Ghost will be opening for Berlin this Saturday, Dec. 18, at The Coach House. More info on them can be found at mojaveghostmusic.com.

And a big congrats to a Dana Point local, the great Kim Wilson of Fabulous Thunderbirds fame, on his 2022 Grammy-nominated solo album Take Me Back.

Anthony Small is Executive Director and co-founder of Music Preserves Foundation, a local musician and former City of Dana Point Arts and Culture Commissioner.

Small and his family have lived in Dana Point for 24 years. DP

Children have been in public schools in person during COVID since October 2020. We do not need to lose medical freedom, bodily autonomy, and the right to in-person education over a mandate for a vaccine that doesn’t prevent people from getting or transmitting COVID. Based on estimates I’ve heard from those tracking participation at the rallies, if the mandate was to be enforced, CUSD could lose 40% of its student population, which would cripple the district.

Reports from the CDC and WHO show that COVID is endemic. It is not going away. We need to learn to live with it while retaining our personal freedoms and right to in-person education.

To follow “the science” means to continually seek out data with a critical eye and understand that one perspective is not the only perspective. It is possible to be a critical thinker, while allowing others to also be critical thinkers who come to conclusions different from one’s own.

We are a nation based on freedom and acceptance of diversity. The lack of civil discourse over this matter and so many other issues is another deeper level of trouble the mandate reveals.

Our country needs us to do better and have respectful discourse and honor diversity of choices. Our government needs it. Our schools need it. Our children and their futures need it.

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

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY Have something you’d like to say? Email your letter to 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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GETTING OUT

2-6 p.m. Come enjoy a drink and enjoy some live music at this famous downtown bar. Feed the Kitty Band will perform. The James Kelly Band will also perform inside at 9 p.m., and Marie J outside at 8 p.m. Swallow’s Inn, 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano.

949.493.3188. swallowsinn.com.

Editor’s Pick

WINTER SNOW GLOBE 7 p.m. An immersive, multisensory experience at Capistrano Beach’s newest community arts venue, the Fish Tank.

Singer-songwriter Molly Bergman will perform with rock band Daring Greatly.

Tickets are $50. Doors open at 6 p.m. Fish Tank Capo, 34233 Via Santa Rosa, Capistrano Beach. 714.984.4142. fishtankcapo.com.

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 | 17 WINTERSCAPE Times vary. Enjoy live music, appearances by Santa, ice skating, ice curling, and more throughout December (ending Dec. 23) during this new event at the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park in San Juan Capistrano. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. 30753 La Pata Road, San Juan Capistrano. 949.299.7219. sanjuanoutpost.com.

CAPISTRANO LIGHTS 4-6 p.m. This annual seasonal tradition returns to Mission San Juan Capistrano.

Enjoy holiday programs, Christmas tree lightings, a nativity scene, and more on select nights in December at one of South Orange County’s premier historic venues. Tickets are $19 for adults, $17 for seniors, and $14 for children. Children under 3 are free. Same-day tickets are not available for purchase online after 3 p.m. Mission San Juan Capistrano, 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. missionsjc.com.

CASA LUMINA HOLIDAY WALK 5-7 p.m. Now through Dec. 22, roam around Casa Romantica’s historic seaside home and gardens, which are transformed into an illuminated and festively decorated winter wonderland at night.

This is a fun, family-friendly experience for all, as each night will include an illuminated walk through Casa Romantica, live entertainment from local artists, crafts including Letters to Santa, and a Dana Point Times December 17-23, 2021

Photo: Courtesy of the San Onofre Parks Foundation

SATURDAY | 18 EVENING SHOPPING AT SAN CLEMENTE STATE BEACH 5-8 p.m. Stop by the Visitor Center Gift Shop to do holiday shopping and support the local nonprofit San Onofre Parks Foundation. All proceeds benefit the education, protection and preservation programs at San Clemente and San Onofre State Beaches.

There will be holiday music, complimentary hot beverages, and light refreshments.

The state beach also hosts the San Onofre Parks Foundation’s Pop-Up Shop on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 225 Avenida Calafia, San Clemente. 949.366.8599. admin@sanoparks.org. sanoparks.org.

hot cocoa bar. General admission is $12; children 12 and under get in free. Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente.

949.498.2139. casaromantica.org.

Point. 949.464.5700. thepointrestaurantandbar.com.

LIVE MUSIC AT STILLWATER 9 p.m. Live music is featured at this popular South Orange County venue.

Cover band 80s All Stars will perform.

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

A CABRILLO HOLIDAY CELEBRATION 7:30 p.m. The Cabrillo Playhouse presents this holiday show for the whole family.

Join the playhouse, along with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, as it celebrates the holidays and sings traditional and contemporary songs with some audience participation.

The show will run Friday and Saturday night, Dec. 18, as well as Sunday, Dec. 19, at 2 p.m. Admission is $25. Masks will be required while inside the theater. Cabrillo Playhouse, 202 Avenida Cabrillo, San Clemente. 949.492.0465. cabrilloplayhouse.org.

SATURDAY | 18 HOLIDAY HIKE IN TALEGA WITH ASSEMBLYMEMBER DAVIES 8 a.m. San Clemente Councilmember Laura Ferguson is hosting this Holiday Hike in Talega, where she invites residents to take a break from the hustle and bustle of holiday shopping and join Assemblymember Laurie Davies for an opportunity to discuss local issues affecting the community. Participants should gather at Ferguson’s home at 406 Camino Flora Vista in San Clemente.

HOLIDAY HARBOR LIGHTS Dana Point Harbor Partners is spreading seasonal cheer with the annual holiday light display that will illuminate the Harbor through Jan. 2. Each night throughout the holiday season, the Harbor’s magnificent light display will illuminate the evening sky for guests of all ages to enjoy. Themed light exhibits throughout the Harbor will include Candy Cane Lane, a popular “Merry Kiss Me” arch, lighted trees and much more.

LOW-COST PET VACCINE CLINIC 10-11:30 a.m. Pets Plus San Clemente offers low-cost vaccinations for all dogs and cats every month. All veterinary services are provided by Vet Care Vaccination Services, Inc. Vaccination packages, microchips, physical exams, prescription flea control, fecal exams, and diagnostic testing available on-site. 415 Avenida Pico, San Clemente. 1.800.988.8387. vetcarepetclinic.com.

LIVE MUSIC AT THE POINT 9 p.m.-midnight. Live music is featured at this popular South Orange County venue.

Blondie cover band Strawberry Blond will perform. The Point Restaurant and Bar, 34085 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana

MUSIC AT SWALLOW’S INN Page 8

SUNDAY | 19 MUSIC AT PADDY’S STATION 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Michael Kelly will play Irish songs on the patio. English Joe will play later in the day, from 6-9 p.m.

Drop by, order a pint and some fish and chips, and relax while enjoying the view of downtown San Juan Capistrano, as well as seeing faces old and new. Paddy’s Station, 26701 Verdugo Street, Suite B, San Juan Capistrano. 949.301.2276. paddysstation.com.

LIVE MUSIC AT THE COACH HOUSE 7 p.m. Live music is featured at this popular South Orange County venue. Rock artist Gary Hoey will perform. Tickets are $23. Doors open at 5 p.m. The Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.496.8930. thecoachhouse.com.

TUESDAY | 21 HOLIDAY RUN 6 p.m. Join Fleet Feet Running club for a holiday run and celebration at Station Craft Brewery & Kitchen. This event is free and open to all. Fleet Feet Running Club will kick off the night with a short run from Station Craft, followed by beer and food. Station Craft Brewery & Kitchen, 34150 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point. 949.481.6491. fleetfeetin.com

WEDNESDAY | 22 FLASHBACK WEDNESDAY 7:30 p.m. San Juan Capistrano’s downtown movie theater will screen It’s a Wonderful Life as part of its Flashback Wednesday series. Order some popcorn and sit back in your seat while you enjoy this holiday film. Tickets are $10. Regency Theatres San Juan Capistrano, 26762 Verdugo Street, San Juan Capistrano.

844.216.3767. regencymovies.com. danapointtimes.com

Dana Point Times December 17-23, 2021

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danapointtimes.com

GETTING OUT

South Coast Singers to Take the Stage Again

BY C. JAYDEN SMITH, DANA POINT TIMES

T

he South Coast Singers are returning to the stage as a group for the first time since the coronavirus pandemic began its spread in early 2020.

They will first perform the musical All is Well on Friday, Dec. 17, at 7 p.m. at the Norman P. Murray Community and Senior Center in Mission Viejo. The group has another show on Saturday, Dec. 18, at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in San Clemente at 4 p.m.

All is Well is based on artist Michael W. Smith’s 1989 album Christmas, which features a song with the same title as the musical.

The two-hour program aims to put the audience into the Christmas spirit, while South Coast Singers hopes to raise money to give away as scholarships during the “Our Stars of Tomorrow” event that they put on each year.

For the past 17 years, the organization has given thousands of dollars in scholarships to talented high school students in the area. Funds to pay for scholarships are raised by putting on shows every June and December.

“What we need to do is, we need to get grants or people willing to support us,” said member Barbara Brient. “(With that support), maybe it won’t be such a headache each time trying to come up with selling tickets, because there's nothing worse for a singer to be singing to a half-empty hall.”

Ahead of their upcoming concerts this weekend, the South Coast Singers rehearse at Christ Lutheran Church in San Clemente on Tuesday night, Dec. 14. The concerts will mark the group’s first time performing since the COVID-19 pandemic started. Photo: Shawn Raymundo

The pandemic hit the group hard, as it cut down the number of singers going into 2021 from 52 to 26. Some members simply decided not to come back for this year’s concerts, which added to the stress of trying to organize an orchestra and selling enough tickets.

Instead of singing together in 2020, multiple small groups of three or four people formed to perform at weddings, parties, and other events.

Members also pooled their old family recipes to create a cookbook titled South

Coast Singers Presents: Our Greatest Cookbook Hits, Cherished Family Recipes from Our Kitchen to Yours.

Brient said it has been “huge” to see each other again. Since the group started practicing in September, one of the members has baked cookies for each of their Tuesday rehearsals.

“I kid you not, it’s been amazing,” she added. “Everybody hugged (in September), and it was that feeling of joy to be back again.”

Despite the time that has passed, the

AT THE MOVIES

‘C’mon, C’mon’ Has a Unique Charm for This Winter

BY MEGAN BIANCO, DANA POINT TIMES

A decade ago, I never would have bet on the acclaimed, under-the-radar actor Joaquin Phoenix legitimately settling down as a family man, both on camera and off. But he’s done just that with real-life fiancée Rooney Mara and their baby son. And on screen, he does so in Mike Mills’ latest critical darling C’mon, C’mon.

Following in the same vein as his previous hits, Beginners (2011) and 20th Century WomDana Point Times December 17-23, 2021

Photo: Courtesy of A24 Films

en (2016), Mills reminds us that he is at his best when he finds the quaint and endearing aspects of dysfunctional families.

Set in the present day, Johnny (Phoenix) is an audio producer traveling through every major city in the U.S. to record documentary

comments from real-life teens on their thoughts of everyday life and how they see the future.

Back home in Los Angeles, his younger sister, Viv (Gaby Hoffmann), lives a hectic schedule of working—aiding her on-again/ off-again lover, Paul (Scoot McNairy), who is Page 10

singers still sound great, according to Brient, who has been in the group the longest, at 26 years.

“I’m happy for those of us who have stayed in it,” she said.

“We love singing, we love music; it’s our passion. We’ve got nurses, we’ve got teachers … we’ve got engineers, we’ve got all kinds of people in there building up a choir, so it’s just a fun, loving way to get together twice a year.”

The group hopes to take the audience back in time with their performances and have them relive the memories of their childhood, therefore putting a smile on everyone’s face.

Conversely, they enjoy the compliments they receive after the shows are finished, as they greet the audience members walking back to their cars.

“You don’t know what that does to make us feel good, because that’s what we’re there for,” Brient said. “We want to (make) people-pleasing music, to make somebody smile when they leave and uplift their spirits to say, ‘Wow, that was worth the $20.’”

Children aged 10 and under get in for free, while groups of 10 or more get in at $18 each. General admission is $20.

For tickets, call 949.661.1159. Interested parties can also visit southcoastsingers.org or call 949.613.7840 for more information.

South Coast Singers is also inviting any person who desires to join the choir for next year to call. DP

unpredictably manic and paranoid up north; and raising their eccentric 9-year-old son, Jesse (Woody Norman).

To help ease Viv’s load, Johnny offers to watch over Jesse for three weeks while he works on the East Coast as she tries to convince Paul to get professional help.

Despite the R rating (which is only for two brief instances of foul language), C’mon, C’mon might be the best family film of 2021.

Like Kenneth Branagh’s own family piece Belfast, Mills’ movie is shot in black and white, but with a more introspective quality.

Phoenix and Norman have a natural, candid chemistry that flows between them in scenes, which makes you feel like a fly on the wall. Norman successfully comes across as a legitimately precocious, yet adorable, kid; and Phoenix is his usual stellar self on film.

The film has some striking cinematography from Robbie Ryan and a lovely, retro soundtrack

by Aaron and Bryce Dessner. Phoenix’s and Hoffmann’s performances as brother and sister make it one of the best sibling castings in recent memory. Altogether, C’mon, C’mon is one movie to catch this month. DP danapointtimes.com

Dana Point Times December 17-23, 2021

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danapointtimes.com

DP LIVING

GUEST OPINION | Wellness &

Prevention by Marci Mednick

Teens & Impaired Driving

P

arents and guardians have been protecting their child from dangers on and off the road for many years and then they suddenly find themselves handing over the keys to the family car during the teen years.

While a teen may look and sound like an adult once they get their license, they still lack real-world experience when it comes to operating a vehicle. Experts agree that it takes at least five years for teens to reach the skill level of most other drivers.

According to the Safe States Alliance, motor vehicle crashes currently rank as a leading cause of injury among individuals under 24 years of age. In fact, novice teen drivers are twice as likely as adult drivers to be involved in a fatal crash.

Teen drivers are involved in car crashes not because they are uninformed about the rules of the road. Rather, studies show that teens are involved in crashes because of inexperience and risk-taking, especially when driving with a teenage peer.

In a recent National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) study, teens were two and a half times more likely to engage in risky behavior while driving with a teen peer rather than alone. The likelihood increases to three times when traveling with multiple teen passengers.

While new drivers might be more vulnerable to peer pressure, driving fast, and distraction from their mobile phones, the greatest risk they face is impaired driving or riding with an impaired driver.

Impaired driving is operating a car under the influence of alcohol or any other type of drug, including prescription medications. In the U.S., a person is killed every 50 minutes by an impaired driver.

Alcohol and marijuana aren’t just illegal for teens to consume; use can be deadly if they drink or use and drive.

Impaired driving is entirely preventable when teens understand its dangers. It takes all of us—parents, schools, and the community—to make sure adolescents are equipped with the facts about Dana Point Times December 17-23, 2021

Photo: Shawn Raymundo

Usually, it isn’t the impaired driver who is injured; it is everybody around them. The knowledge that your teen could injure or kill another person is alarming enough, but there are serious consequences for driving while impaired. California has the strictest DUI laws in the country. There are large fines, jail time, and a loss of license for anyone under the age of 21 with a BAC of 0.01% or more.

Despite feeling like your teen may listen to their friends more than you, numerous studies have shown that parents make a huge difference in their teens’ decisions when it comes to alcohol and other drug use.

It’s important to talk to your teen about your expectations when it comes to alcohol and other drugs, and that safety comes first. Let them know you won’t be angry if they find themselves in a situation where they don’t feel safe

impaired driving.

The legal limit for adults over the age of 21 is a blood-alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08%, but impairment begins long before one reaches the 0.08 level. Research shows that some of the skills needed to drive safely begin to deteriorate even at the 0.02% blood-alcohol level. Alcohol reduces brain function by impairing WELLNESS & thinking, reasonPREVENTION ing, and muscle

BY MARCI MEDNICK coordination—all essential to operating a vehicle safely.

Make sure your child knows the dangers of riding with an impaired driver.

Before going out for the evening, discuss the options they have to get home safely.

Let them know their safety is your primary concern.

Page 12

and that you will be there when they need help.

Remember: You have more influence on your teen’s driving than you realize.

Teach them well and stay involved— whether they’re a driver or a passenger—to ensure their safety and your peace of mind.

Marci Mednick, community development specialist, leads Providence Mission Hospital’s youth substance use prevention initiative, including raisinghealthyteens. org and strengthinnumbersoc.org, which bring evidence-informed strategies to South Orange County. She can be reached at marci.mednick@stjoe.org. Providence Mission Hospital is a member of the Wellness & Prevention Coalition. 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.

danapointtimes.com

DP LIVING

GUEST OPINION | Life’s a Beach by Shelley Murphy

Traditional Controversy This Holiday Season

D

ecember ’tis the season of traditions. The big guy in the red suit comes to town next week, and in anticipation, the halls are decked and stockings are hung.

Holiday traditions handed down from generation to generation create treasured memories and cherished celebrations— it’s why there’s no place like home for the holidays.

My family kicks off the Christmas season before the turkey leftovers are gobbled. The day LIFE’S A BEACH after Thanksgiving,

BY SHELLEY MURPHY from dawn to dusk, I transform the interior of our home into a merry winter wonderland.

Maybe it’s the toll of the past two years, but this month I yearned to cut back my copious collection of Christmas clutter.

I ran the idea by my husband, but he didn’t share my less-is-more outlook. Instead, Mr. Griswold strung so many bright lights outside that I’m certain Santa sees our house from the North Pole.

Before putting my plan in place, I asked my sons which seasonal decorations are most important to them. They agreed, it wouldn’t be Christmas without the trimmed tree and the staircase garland.

Then I asked my younger son, “You’re sure you won’t miss the drumming nutcrackers and dancing Santas?” He replied, “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

I revel in our holiday traditions, but there’s one ritual I relish—and it’s considered controversial.

Alas, the arrival of December always

ADOPTABLE PET OF THE WEEK

Chandler

Dana Point Times December 17-23, 2021

rekindles the heated and decades-old debate: Is Die Hard a Christmas movie?

My answer: yes.

It’s not Christmas in my house until John McClane boards his holiday flight bound for Los Angeles and Nakatomi Plaza.

Skeptics disagree, including its star Bruce Willis, but there’s no denying the facts. First, the movie takes place at a holiday office party and on Christmas Eve. Second, its score is seasonally centric, and the soundtrack includes holiday classics and remixes of “Winter Wonderland” and “Jingle Bells.”

Also, John McClane’s estranged wife’s name is Holly Gennero. A coincidence? I think not.

Perhaps director John McTiernan said it best: “We hadn’t intended it to be a Christmas movie, but the joy that came from it is what turned it into a Christmas movie.” Yippee-Ki-Yay… Another questionable holiday tradition is the Christmas pickle.

I first faced the Christmas pickle in September 1990, when I opened a wedding gift. The package contained several Christmas tree ornaments, including a bright green glass dill pickle.

The present came from an old family friend and, at the time, I considered the object a humorless joke or early dementia.

Only recently, I realized the American origin of the Christmas pickle dates to the late 1800s.

Like many heartwarming traditions, its creation is credited to a retailer who used it as a marketing tool to boost ornament sales.

The gimmick, or tradition, is to hide the pickle among the ornaments on the tree.

Then, on Christmas morning, the first

DANA POINT TIMES

Hi, I’m Chandler, a male 8-month-old brown tabby. I am a sweet boy and have been waiting for my forever home. I get along with other kitties, so having another feline friend at home would be awesome. I like to play with my mousey and love looking out the window at the birds. I need to be an indoor kitty. I would love a home for the holidays.

If you are interested in adopting Chandler, please visit petprojectfoundation.org to download an adoption application form. Completed forms can be emailed to animalservices@scdpanimalshelter.org, and you will be contacted about making an interaction appointment.

Photo: Courtesy of UCLA

FROM THE ARCHIVES A Bucyrus shovel at work in 1929 as it dumps a load of dirt into a waiting truck in Dana Point.

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.

person to find the pickle gets an extra gift or gets to open the first present; hence, also instigating the first sibling squabble of the day.

Maybe the most contentious Christmas tradition is that impish Elf on the Shelf.

The children’s book, and toy, arrived in 2005, too late for our family to adopt the mischief-maker. Parents are divided; they either love or hate the elfin rascal.

Lots of parents loathe the nightly task of relocating the playful elf.

I like to think I would’ve enjoyed the scout elf’s seasonal stay and gladly aided in his nighttime hijinks.

Sure, it’s bothersome, but the threat of an all-knowing elf reporting my boys’ naughty behavior back to Santa would’ve been worth my time.

But, then again, I’d also live in terror

the entire season for fear I’d forget to “return” the mischievous elf to Santa at the North Pole on Christmas Eve. From the ridiculous to the sublime, time-honored traditions foster our seasonal nostalgia and sense of belonging.

I hope this season, once again, finds families gathering together and celebrating their treasured traditions—for the holidays, you can’t beat home, sweet home.

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.

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 Page 13

See the solution in next week’s issue.

danapointtimes.com

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

DOLPHIN REPORT

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, DANA POINT TIMES

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

Bo Kelly Signs with Cal Poly to Open Early Signing Period College football signees have been few for Dana Hills High School in recent seasons, let alone Division I signees and, rarer still, early signees.

However, things have been very different for Dana Hills this season, and that includes the announcement from senior quarterback Bo Kelly on Wednesday, Dec. 15.

Kelly, Dana Hills’ all-time passing leader, signed his National Letter of Intent with Cal Poly San Luis Obispo to open the early signing period for football.

Kelly also had offers from Portland State and University of San Diego, but the Dolphins’ signal-caller was enticed by the spread offense that Cal Poly runs.

Cal Poly head coach Beau Baldwin is in his second year with the Mustangs after three years as the offensive coordinator at Cal and an NCAA Division 1 Football Championship Subdivision title at Eastern Washington in 2010.

Dana Hills football head coach Tony Henney is also a Cal Poly SLO alumnus and was an assistant coach with the Mustangs before returning to the high school ranks at Dana Hills.

Kelly, the Pacific Hills League co-offensive player of the year, was instrumental in the recent turnaround of the Dana Hills program and spurred on the Dolphins’ success with a potent offense. Kelly set the program’s single-season records for passing completions (177), yards (3,502) and touchdowns (39), helping Dana Hills qualify for the CIF-SS playoffs for the first time since 2013.

Kelly also finished his Dana Hills career as the Dolphins’ all-time passing leader with 5,868 yards and 61 touchdowns.

Kelly played in 25 games over his Dana Hills career, with nine split games as a sophomore and 16 games as the undisputed starting quarterback as a junior (five) and senior (11). Dana Hills was 17-8 in games that Kelly played.

Kelly won’t be the last college signee for Henney’s Dolphins, either, as there are five other Dana Hills players with college offers. While the early signing period runs from Dec. 15 to Jan. 15, the regular National Signing Day is Feb. 2, which opens the regular period through April 1 for Division I and Aug. 1 for Division II. Dana Point Times December 17-23, 2021

Dana Hills senior quarterback Bo Kelly signed with Cal Poly San Luis Obispo on the first day of the early signing period on Wednesday, Dec. 15. Kelly finished his Dolphins football career as the program’s all-time leading passer. Photo: Zach Cavanagh

Football Earns 15 All-League Honors In addition to Kelly’s distinction as the Pacific Hills League co-offensive player of the year, the Dana Hills football program earned 14 first- and second-team honors in the league’s year-end awards.

Dana Hills earned eight first-team selections, highlighted by senior wide receivers Owen Chambers and Omarjaye Black. Chambers set school records in single-game receiving yards (251) and touchdown receptions (four, twice) and single-season receiving yards (1,197) and touchdown receptions (15). Black tied the school record in single-game receptions (10, also set by Chris Kearney in 2010) and career touchdown receptions (21).

Other Dana Hills first-team players included senior linebacker Jagger Wiesen, senior tight end James Allemann, senior defensive back Hayden Dendiu, senior kicker Kian Afrookhteh, junior linebacker Christian Guarascio and junior offensive lineman Ethan Torbert.

The Dolphins had six players selected to the second team, including senior defensive backs Miles Darst and Broghan Daley, senior linebacker Ethan Geske, senior offensive lineman Jaden Kessi, junior defensive lineman Ethan Brougham and junior offensive lineman Johnny Owen.

Boys Basketball Strong at CVCS Eagle Classic The Dana Hills boys basketball team Page 14

continued its strong, early-season tournament play with a 3-1 showing at the Eagle Classic hosted by Capistrano Valley Christian last week.

The Dolphins were dominant in their opener over Temecula Valley, 89-64, on Dec. 7, and squeezed by San Gabriel Academy, 53-50, on Dec. 9. Host CVC captured the group with a big win over the Dolphins, 87-49, on Dec. 10, and Dana Hills got another tight win to close the tournament over Mayfair, 51-49, on Dec. 11.

Dana Hills, ranked No. 6 in CIF-SS Division 3A, hosted Laguna Beach in a nonleague game on Thursday, Dec. 16, but results were not available at press time.

The Dolphins (10-3) are next in action against Huntington Beach as part of a daylong battle for Orange County supremacy in the North-South Classic on Tuesday, Dec. 21, at Tesoro High School. Dana Hills then hosts San Clemente on Wednesday, Dec. 22.

The Dolphins open Sea View League play on Jan. 7 at El Toro.

Girls Water Polo Earns Wins at Villa Park Tournament The Dana Hills girls water polo team maintained its successful early-season form with a nice run at the Villa Park Tournament on Dec. 9-11.

The Dolphins opened with a 9-3 loss to Long Beach Millikan, then responded with three consecutive victories.

Dana Hills beat Mission Viejo (17-5), Cathedral Catholic of San Diego (17-2) and Santa Monica (12-9). The Dolphins closed the tournament with a 12-2 loss to Yucaipa.

Dana Hills is now 10-4 on the season and ranked No. 3 in CIF-SS Division 3.

The Dolphins’ next scheduled match will be their South Coast League opener on Jan. 4 at home against Tesoro.

Roundup Dana Hills boys soccer scored its second win of the season on Dec. 10, in a 2-1 victory over Northwood. The Dolphins are 2-1-1 on the year and are next in action at the Laguna Hills Hawk Invitational on Monday, Dec. 20. Dana Hills plays Orange Lutheran in the morning at Lake Forest Sports Park and at host Laguna Hills in the afternoon.

Dana Hills girls soccer picked up its second positive result on Tuesday, Dec. 14, with a 2-2 draw at Trabuco Hills. The Dolphins bounced back from a 4-0 home loss to San Clemente last week to move to a 1-3-1 record. Dana Hills played at Santa Margarita on Thursday, Dec. 16, but results were not available at press time. The Dolphins next play at Huntington Beach on Tuesday, Dec. 21.

Dana Hills girls basketball dropped its most recent game on Tuesday, Dec. 14, after a three-game winning streak. The Dolphins lost to Calvary Chapel, 51-45, after wins over Laguna Beach, St. Margaret’s and Edison. Dana Hills next hosts Laguna Beach on Monday, Dec. 20. DP 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

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

Dana Point Times December 17-23, 2021

Page 15

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PUBLIC NOTICES TO ADVERTISE: 949.388.7700, EXT. 111 • LEGALS@PICKETFENCEMEDIA.COM PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: JAMES A. BRAY, AKA JAMES ALLEN BRAY Case Number: 30-2021-01232834-PR-LA-CJC To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will and or estate, or both, of JAMES A. BRAY, AKA JAMES ALLEN BRAY A Petition for Probate has been filed by Laticia Bray in the Superior Court of California, County of ORANGE. The Petition for Probate requests that Laticia Bray be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

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: Feb 03, 2022 Time: 2:00 p.m. in Dept: C8, B. Address of Court: 700 Civic Center Drive West, Santa Ana, CA 92701. (1) If you plan to appear, you must attend the hearing by video remote using the court’s designated video platform; (2) Go to the courts website at: http://www.occourts.

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

Dana Point Times December 17-23, 2021

org/media-relations/probate-mental-health. html to appear for probate hearings and for remote hearing instructions; (3) If you have difficulty connecting to your remote hearing, call (657)622-8278 for assistance.

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 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.

Attorney for Petitioner: Judd Matsunaga, Esq., Elder Law Services of California, APLC 1609 Cravens Avenue, Torrance, CA 90501 Ph: (310)348-7272 Published in: Dana Point Times, Dec 3, 10, 17, 2021

• Fictitious Business Notice (FBN/DBA) • Name Changes • Lien Sale • Alcoholic Beverage License • Petitions for Probate • Trustee Sale ...and more

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

Page 16

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COFFEE SHOP

AUTO REPAIR

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DP SURF

Talkin’ About Good Vibrations New Recording Studio and Surf Shop Looks to Fuse 2 Very Similar Cultures with a Long, Storied History

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

“I

’m glassing boards this morning, I’ll be back at the shop around 11,” read a text from Damien Brawner.

Located in the Shorecliffs zone near the DMV, Brawner Boards isn’t your standard surf shop. It’s a solid dose of soul situated in the nether regions between San Clemente and Dana Point.

And the shop, in the words of The Beatles, just keeps getting better every day.

“Glassing surfboards is what my family does, but music’s in our blood,” Brawner explained when we met up at the shop last week. “That’s why I’m expanding.”

Like his father and grandfather before him, Brawner is a drummer at heart.

Playing in bands and being around the music scene his whole life, he’s decided to put his experiences to good use and has launched the R&R Music Factory.

Brawner’s dad, Danny, was also a career surfboard glasser for Hobie; hence, the new operation’s name, which stands for “rhythm and resin.”

Damien Brawner, a local glasser and musician, has decided to put his experiences to good use and has launched the R&R Music Factory, which will serve as an expansion to his Brawner Boards surf shop in San Clemente. Photo: Jake Howard

“There’s nothing like this in the area, and it’s what I’m really passionate about,” Brawner continued.

What he’s talking about is the recording studio and performance space he’s been building out over the past few months. The recording studio has it all: rooms for recording vocal, drum and guitar tracks, as well as a full soundboard and engineering room to put it all together (along with the human talent to make the magic happen).

Soundproofed and cozy, the vibes are right, and it’s going to be fun to hear what comes out of there in the months and years ahead.

They have the full capacity to record and master songs, as well as the knowhow and understanding of what it takes to get one’s music listened to, which these days means navigating the confusing waters of online streaming services.

R&R Music Factory also has rooms for lessons. Brawner has recruited a strong group of musicians to share their knowledge. From vocals, to keys, to guitar, he’s even drummed up fiddle and banjo teachers.

“We want to be able to help the music scene grow, and whether you’ve been itching to learn an instrument or are serious about your music and want to

record it, that’s what we do. We can also help bands reach whatever their goals may be,” Brawner noted.

The performance space is an extension of Brawner’s original shop. Blowing out a few walls and constructing a small stage, he’s excited to host small musical events, as well as art shows, podcasts and more.

“It’s really a creative space. We can do a lot with it,” he added.

On Dec. 18, he’s opening the doors for an art show hosted by local surf artist Roy Gonzales. He’s also been hosting podcasts with Mitch Colapinto, San Clemente teacher, lifeguard and father to a couple surf stars.

Last week, Brawner celebrated the opening of R&R Music Factory with a little holiday party and is finally ready to share what he’s been working on with the world. There are still some finishing touches to be put on things, but the heart and soul of the place is there.

“Surfing and music, it’s what I’m all about, and this is the vision that I’ve had for a while now,” Brawner said. “It’s been a lot of work to get here, and it certainly hasn’t been cheap and easy, but it’s what I love. I think that the more people that learn about it will enjoy it.

We’re really excited.”

For more information, swing by the shop—or factory—at 220 Avenida Vaquero in San Clemente or check out brawnerboards.com.

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

SURF FORECAST

GROM OF THE WEEK

SCOUT MITCHELL

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

G

Scout Mitchell. Photo: Courtesy of Brawner Boards

Dana Point Times December 17-23, 2021

etting that true grom experience at R&R Music Factory and Brawner Boards, 15-year-old Scout Mitchell is putting in the time working at the shop that’s sure to pay huge dividends in the future.

A stylish, powerful freesurfer, as well as a threat anytime she pulls on the jersey, Mitchell can do it all. Well-traveled and successful in WSA surf events, she’s a well-liked, much-respected member of the next generation of girls who are storming the sport at the moment.

And when the wind’s up or the surf’s down, Mitchell has some serious skills on the ukulele.

“She’s an incredible young woman, so talented, and it’s so great to have her at the shop,” says her boss, Damien Brawner.

“It’s kind of perfect; she’s a great surfer and incredible musician, too. She brings so much good energy to everything she does.”

Not only does she work at the shop, but Brawner’s also been helping support her with some great surfboards to ensure that she always has a good board under her feet.

In the water, at work or a jam session, Mitchell is a true surfer’s surfer. DP If you have a candidate for Grom of the Week, we want to know. Send an email to jakehoward1@gmail.com.

Page 18

Water Temperature: 59-60 Degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: 1-3 Outlook: The swell blend maintains waist-chest high waves, (3-4’), through Friday, then the surf gradually winds down over the weekend. By Sunday, waves are knee-waist high,(2-3’). Light/ variable morning winds are followed by a light+ to periodically moderate afternoon sea breeze Friday through the weekend.

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Dana Point Times December 17-23, 2021

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