Dana Point Times

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New Superintendent for Capistrano Unified School District

Coastal Arts Concert Series Finale Features Mira Khomik

Desalination Plant Testing Begins at Doheny Beach

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GETTING OUT/PAGE 16

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VOLUME 3, ISSUE 20

A Whale’s Tale Lily, a 30-foot long gray whale is set free from entanglement in Dana Point Harbor E Y E O N D P/ PAG E 6

E Y E O N D P/ PAG E 6

Stand up paddler Tracey Ann Engleking gets quite a surprise as a gray whale surfaces next to her in the Dana Point Harbor on Tuesday. Photo by Andrea Swayne

www.danapointtimes.com

Eye on DP

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LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

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D a n a Po i nt

City and Business Calendar Saturday, May 15

Monday, May 17

Wednesday, May 19

Community Bulky Item Disposal and Recycling Event 7:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Dana Hills High School, 33333 Golden Lantern and Palisades Elementary School, 26462 Via Sacramento. Drop off is free. For more information regarding the types of items being accepted, call 949.248.3571 or visit www.danapoint.org

Planning Commission Meeting 6 p.m. City Council Chambers, 33282 Golden Lantern, 949.248.3563, www.danapoint.org

Sunrise Rotary Club 7 a.m. the Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary Club meets every Wednesday at the Ritz-Carlton. 1 Ritz-Carlton Drive, 949.493.2759, www.monarchbeachrotary.com

Farmers Market 9 a.m.–1 p.m. La Plaza Park, 34111 La Plaza Street. Admission is free. For more information or to inquire about purchasing a booth for $25, please call 949.573.5033 or 951.271.0669. www.danapoint.org

Tuesday, May 18

Thursday, May 20

Toastmasters 7 p.m. Dana Point Harbor Toastmasters meets every Tuesday at the Dana Point Library. 33841 Niguel Road, 949.496.2275, www.danaharbor.freetoasthost.ws

Coastmasters 7 a.m. the Coastmasters of Dana Point (a Toastmasters affiliate) meets every Thursday at the Jolly Roger Restaurant, 34661 Golden Lantern, 949.496.9610, www.coastmasters.org

Dana Point’s Top 5 Hottest Topics

What’s Up With...

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Last week: 4 • Weeks on the chart: 2

…A New Superintendent?

THE LATEST: Joseph M. Farley, superintendent of Anaheim Union High School District, has been tapped to lead Capistrano Unified School District. His contract calls for him to receive $275,000 a year, plus benefits.

Joseph M. Farley.

CUSD Board PresiCourtesy of CUSD dent Anna Bryson said Dr. Farley was selected after a nationwide search for a superintendent who would be supported by “those who agree with our Trustees, and those who do not.” President Bryson and Trustee Jack Brick met Thursday with a cross section of Dr. Farley’s colleagues, all of whom described him as the ideal match for the demands of the Capistrano position. “They described a leader of rare caliber who inspires them to achieve on behalf of students,” President Anna Bryson said in a news release. She was not present for the 6-0 vote Tuesday.

Farley, who led Oceanside Unified before taking the helm at Anaheim Union, is credited with turning around a troubled Anaheim district, where he was the third superintendent in three years. He is credited with turning around moral and a troubled school-construction program.

WHAT’S NEXT: Farley starts July 1 and replaces interim Superintendent Bobbi Mahler, whose one-year contract ends in June. He will be the seventh person in four years to hold the post in CUSD. FIND OUT MORE: See the contract and district announcement at the Beyond the Blackboard blog at www.danapointtimes.com —Jonathan Volzke

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Last week: N/a • Weeks on the chart: 1

…10-year Lease Extension for Salt Creek Beach Café?

THE LATEST: The Dana Point Board of Superwww.danapointtimes.com

visors approved a 10-year lease agreement on May 11 with John Efstathiou, a Fifth District resident, for the continued operation of Salt Creek Beach Café in Dana Point.

Efstathiou has operated at Salt Creek Beach for the past 22 years, and as it happens every 10 years, the lease on the county-owned property was recently up for bid.

Mike Ali, a competitor in the bid, initially wanted to assume control of the property.

According to a city representative, Ali owns two successful concession stands in Huntington Beach that bring the city the most revenue of the five similar stands there.

Overall, this was a battle between the bottom dollar and community support.

In January, O.C. Parks Commission staff recommended Ali receive the bid because he would make the county more money in the long run. However, community support for Efstathiou ultimately ran high with numerous people signing a petition saying they did not want the long-time resident to leave the site.

After hearing testimony from both sides last February, the commission voted 4-2 in favor of Efstathiou. Following the decision, staffers ultimately reversed their own decision and, too, sided with Efstathiou.

In addition to meeting the County’s financial requirements, the decision to award this lease to Mr. Efstathiou was bolstered by the overwhelming community support he received as evidenced by the petition he provided with over 1300 signatures, as well as an online petition with over 2100 members, Supervisor Pat Bates said in a statement.

During the meeting earlier this week, a total of 11 people, including Efstathiou, family members, other Dana Point residents and community merchants, spoke on Efstathiou’s behalf, encouraging the supervisors not to award the concession contract to Ali. Ali did not attend the meeting.

WHAT’S NEXT: According to Rich Adler, real estate manager for O.C. parks, Ali does have a strong track record with his business operations in Huntington Beach, which currently makes upwards of $800,000 a year for the city. Efstathiou totals about $200,000 a year for Dana Point, and the county leases the stand at about 15 percent of gross revenue.

However, many view Ali as a business-

man trying to bring more tourists to Salt Creek Beach. In this case, a higher revenue at the stand could have a negative impact on the safety of the beach. To many, it is considered a stretch that requires advanced skills to fully enjoy, with waves that are often dangerous to navigate for the common unskilled beachgoer. Ali’s plan would ultimately fix up the stand, while offering surfboard rentals as well as food. It would also aim to facilitate the transportation of tourists from nearby hotels to the beach as he does with his operation in Huntington.

Ali’s proposal would also call for the stand to stay open daily throughout the year. Efstathiou remains open daily during the summer, but offers concession only on weekends during the months of fall, winter and spring.

Moreover, many citizens maintain Efstathiou is irreplaceable due to his solid record of solving youth-related skirmishes before they become a problem. “Through the years, John has developed an irreplaceable bond with Salt Creek beachgoers,” sheriff’s Deputy Jose Pelayo of Dana Point Police Services said in a letter to county Supervisor Bates. “This bond has led to several issues being resolved without police intervention at the beach, the local high school and throughout the community.”

FIND OUT MORE: www.danapoint.org —David Zimmerle

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Last week: N/A • Weeks on the chart: 1

…Passing of a Popular School Volunteer?

THE LATEST: Services are scheduled Sunday for Teri Lynn O’Brien, a past president of the PTAs at Del Obispo elementary, Marco Forster middle and Dana Hills High School, who passed away on May 3.

She was 49 years old and died after a brief illness.

She is survived by her husband, Bill, described as an inseparable best friend. They built a successful business together and enjoyed Doheny State Beach, camping in the desert mountains and Maui.

Her daughter Kelsey just completed her first year at Azusa Pacific University, and she is also survived by her son Chris, Heather,

their newborn son Jaxson, and Heather’s son, Andre.

O’Brien also leaves behind three brothers and their wives, Richard and Stacie, Steve and Ida, and David and Julie Mickle; her motherin-law, Yuba; her three brothers-in-law, Jim, Kelan, and Tracy; her sister-in-law, Dow; nephews, Ryan and Graham Mickle; nieces, Cari, Shannon, and Amanda Mickle; nephews, Riley, Marty, and Kyle O’Brien WHAT’S NEXT: A memorial and celebration of Teri’s life will be held at 3 p.m, Sunday, May 16, at Capistrano Valley Church. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Teri O’Brien Memorial Scholarship Fund c/o PTSA Dana Hills High School, 33333 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, CA 92629.

FIND OUT MORE: For more information see the Beyond the Blackboard Blog at www. danapointtimes.com —Jonathan Volzke

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Last week: N/A • Weeks on the chart: 1

…Toby’s Thrift Store is No More?

THE LATEST: A thrift store that serves area homeless pregnant women—including residents from Dana Point, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano—shut down May 7 because the nonprofit business can no longer afford its rent.

Toby’s Annex, 10 S. El Camino Real, which has operated in San Clemente for over seven years, has liquidated its entire inventory.

Everything from the hangers, to the smallest trinkets to the cash register has all been sold in order to pay the rent that is due.

When the owner of the building told CEO of Toby’s House Maternity Home, Kathleen Eaton, that the store’s rent would be increasing, Toby’s board decided to shut down the business.

Financially, the business was supported by federal and local grants, as well as by private donors. Toby’s also supported the community by offering life skills workshops for local homeless pregnant women. After the women completed a workshop they were offered store credit for their achievement. The women would be supplied with free merchandise such (Cont. on page 5) May 14–20, 2010 • Dana Point Times • Page 3

Eye on DP www.coastal.ca.gov/mtgcurr.html. Log on to www.danapointtimes.com to read City Attorney Patrick Munoz’s response to the Coastal Commission.

—Andrea Swayne

(Cont. from page 3) as furniture, after leaving Toby’s house.

Without the store’s support, those very women will not receive help on that end any longer.

Toby’s closure is not the first thrift store supporting local shelters to close recently.

Casa de Kathy, a nonprofit second-hand store in San Clemente that supported Kathy’s House in San Juan Capistrano, also shut down last March.

On the Bubble Other topics making news this week

WHAT’S NEXT: Parties interested in helping to fill the financial gap left by the store closing, are asked to contact Toby’s house directly at 949.661.4408. The organization also needs volunteer mentors. If you are interested in donation your time, please contact Jacquelyn Flora via email at director@ tobyshouse.org.

FIND OUT MORE: Visit www.tobyshouse. com/index.html for more information, or call 949.661.4408.

—Jamal Al-Sarraf

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Last week: N/a • Weeks on the chart: 1

…Strand Beach Access Dispute Continues?

THE LATEST: The California Coastal Commission will consider, on Thursday, an appeal of the city’s decision to adopt a nuisance urgency ordinance to keep two access gates standing and posted hours in effect at the Headlands community at Strand Beach.

The commission gave the city a deadline of April 2 to remove the gates following a meeting regarding access issues at the development.

In response, City Council approved an urgency ordinance declaring the area a public nuisance due to what they described as rampant vandalism, loitering and general mischief in the area making public safety an issue. The passing of the ordinance resulted in the city gaining full control of access to the neighborhood.

DP Sheriff’s Blotter Compiled by Jam a l A l-Sa r r a f All information below is obtained from the Orange County Sheriff’s

A sign posted on a gate at the Headlands neighborhood at Strand Beach illustrates beach access routes.

Photo by Andrea Swayne

The city and the developer, Sanford Edward, also disputed the commission’s order pointing out that there are other pathways to the beach without gates and longer hours of permitted access.

Two commissioners are also filing appeals charging that the existing gates restrict public access and run contrary to the Local Coastal Program.

The Surfrider Foundation filed an appeal saying that the ordinance was put in place purposely to circumvent the California Coastal Act and that no such public nuisance exists.

WHAT’S NEXT: The city and Munoz plan to continue to dispute the commissions appeal. Munoz pointed out the importance of this issue because the city must keep local VANDALISM IN PROGRESS Via Sacramento, 26400 Block (5:45 p.m.)

A group of juveniles were playing roughly at a playground near a youth center. According to an informant they were being “rowdy” and they wanted deputies to come investigate to see if any property was damaged.

DISTURBANCE Pacific Coast Highway, 34300 Block (5:23 p.m.) A group of five juveniles, aged 12 to 14, were skateboarding in the middle of the street while their three other friends recorded their antics. An informant who passed by called deputies to get them off the road and make sure that they wouldn’t hurt themselves.

control over public safety determinations as well as control over the allocation of public safety dollars.

According to Munoz, the impact of the commission’s opinion is due to their belief that it has a right to tell the city that if a nuisance problem exists they can tell the city to simply hire more police to deal with safety concerns, instead of utilizing gates to close off the property at night when it’s closed.

“We want to emphasize to the community that this issue has nothing to do with closing off beach access and that the city maintains well lit, safe access at all times when the beach is open,” said Munoz.

FIND OUT MORE: The Coastal Commission staff report on the issue can be read at called authorities when they found clothing on the playground that had “human excrement” all over it. Deputies arrived on the scene and determined that no crime was involved.

DISTURBANCE El Encanto Avenue, 33900 Block (2:16 a.m.) A frantic informant called deputies when her roommate’s boyfriend began to beat her. She said that the problem was ongoing and that this was the second night in a row that the boyfriend hit her roommate and that he had a hatchet type weapon in his vehicle. Deputies rushed to the scene and the boyfriend was nowhere to be found.

Tuesday, May 11

Department Web site (www.ocsd.org) and reflects data available from calls placed from the field by the responding officer(s). An arrest doesn’t represent guilt. The items below are just a sampling of the entries listed on the OCSD Web site.

Wednesday, May 12 UNKNOWN TROUBLE Tesoro Street, 32900 Block (7:51 p.m.)

An informant called authorities when their friend came over and dropped off a suicide note. The friend was described as a 29-yearold male with a Mohawk. Authorities rushed to the man’s house to convince him not to commit suicide. www.danapointtimes.com

WELFARE CHECK El Encanto Avenue,33900 Block (11:45 a.m.) A woman called deputies because she saw her ex-boyfriend circling around her residence. She claimed that his current girlfriend sent him to kill her. Authorities rushed to the scene and tried to talk to the informant but she did not want to come out of her residence. Deputies then told the exboyfriend to leave.

DISTURBANCE Golden Lantern, 32500 Block (7:06 p.m.)

A coffee house worker called authorities when they saw an elderly man and woman in a brawl outside of the business. They continued to fight until deputies arrived on the scene and detained both of them. A taxi was called in to haul them off to their homes.

CITIZEN ASSIST Via Sacramento, 26400 Block (7:55 a.m.)

A panicked elementary school worker

WELFARE CHECK Ocean Hill Drive, 33200 Block (12:40 p.m.)

A man answered his door to see his neighbor standing outside. The neighbor

U.S. Border Patrol Agents Arrest 22 Who Arrive via Boat: On May 4 at around 7:30 a.m., U.S. Border Patrol agents operating the Interstate 5 checkpoint stopped a Chevrolet van loaded with 22 illegal aliens.

The van was sent to secondary inspection for further examination where agents questioned the 23 people inside. The agents determined the 32-year-old driver, a male Mexican national, had a valid border crossing card but the others in the group were all illegal immigrants from Mexico.

Processing of the group revealed five men had extensive criminal histories and one of the five had two active felony arrest warrants. Agents were able to determine that the group entered the United States early that morning by boat and came ashore near Camp Pendleton where they were picked up by the driver of the van. Agents arrested both the driver and a 42-year-old male passenger for suspected alien smuggling. The arrested passenger had accompanied the group in the boat and allegedly guided them from the boat to the van. The 2000 Dodge van used to transport the aliens was seized.

The two juveniles, a 16-year-old girl who claimed to be four months pregnant and a 16-year-old boy were turned over to the Mexican Consulate pending contact with family members.

To prevent the smuggling of humans, drugs and other contraband, the U.S. Border Patrol deploys coordinated enforcement operations and interior checkpoints as part of a defense-in-depth enforcement approach.

Since the beginning of the 2010 fiscal year, agents in the San Diego Sector have apprehended more than 43,900 illegal aliens. said that she needed help and looked upset about something. A few minutes later, the man called 911 to report that his neighbor had a pancreatic attack.

DISTURBANCE Del Prado / Pacific Coast Highway (12:16 p.m.) A grocery store clerk called authorities when a group of subjects were outside the business demanding money from customers.

When the customers refused the subjects began to scream at them. Deputies were dispatched and forced the subjects to leave the premises.

Monday, May 10 RECKLESS DRIVING Doheny Park Road, 34000 Block (11:15 p.m.)

An informant called because a man was “smoking his tires” in front of a gas station.

He then sped off and was found in front of another business. Deputies tracked him down and told him to stop.

DISTURBANCE-MECHANICAL Mesa Vista Drive, 33100 Block (8:05 p.m.)

According to a sheriff’s report an informant said that loud construction work was occurring near their residence and that they were supposed to stop promptly at 8 p.m. It seems like the DP Times isn’t the only business with strict deadlines.

May 14–20, 2010 • Dana Point Times • Page 5

Eye on DP

A Whale’s Tale Lily, a 30-foot long gray whale is set free from entanglement in Dana Point Harbor

By Andrea Swayne Dana Point Times

t around 2:30 p.m. on Monday, May 10, deputies watched from an Orange County Sheriff’s Department Harbor Patrol boat as a whale turned and swam out to sea toward Capo Beach after attempting to enter the Dana Point Harbor for the second time that day.

The boat was stationed near the mouth of the harbor in an effort to prevent a whale that was first seen swimming inside the jetty in the morning.

According to Deputy Belair, Harbor Patrol first spotted the 30-foot long whale at around 8:45 a.m. about a quarter to a half-mile deep inside the harbor. Harbor Patrol coaxed the whale out and watched as “he” swam around the west jetty out to sea.

“We got a call at about 12:30 p.m. saying that he was back,” said Belair. “The Ocean Institute had a boat out and tentatively identified him as an older gray whale, he had a lot of growth on him and that he was pretty thin for his size.”

When deputies responded to the second call, they observed the same whale trying to swim back into the harbor and responded by observing the whale from their boat and moving slowly back and forth at the harbor mouth, to encourage him from swimming back inside.

“We saw the whale slowly making his way back toward the harbor. We don’t know what prompted him to turn around, but he turned around and seemed to be leisurely surfacing and swimming back out towards the open ocean, going eastbound towards Capo Beach and San Mateo Point,” said Deputy Ivec. “We will definitely be keeping our eyes open to see if he returns. If we don’t see him, I’m sure someone else will and will let us know about it.”

Dan Sforza of the California Department of Fish and Game was also on hand observing the whale.

“Whales are a federally managed species, so NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) is actually the agency that oversees the species’ regulations. The main thing we are here to do is to support the Sheriff’s Department and help them if any issues arise, but like the deputies said, he moved along on his own,” said Sforza.

As word got out about the whale, a handful of curious onlookers arrived on jet skis to try and catch a glimpse. Sforza had these cautionary words regarding the public keeping a distance while observing whales. “The law states that it is illegal to harass marine mammals and the guidelines NOAA uses is to stay at least 100 yards away,” said Sforza. “Anyone observed harassing a marine mammal is subject to citations and fines.”

On Tuesday “he” was first spotted early in the morning around 7:30 a.m. making his way toward the Embarcadero Marina launch ramps and startling a few early morning stand up paddlers in the process.

The whale’s early morning route took him in through the harbor mouth, past the Dana Wharf Whale Watching boats and within 20 feet of the launch ramp. Along this route he stopped and lingered at the fueling station, swam past diners at the Jolly Roger Restaurant patio and right in front of the jet ski and kayak rentals before turning around and heading back out toward sea.

Tracey Ann Engleking was paddling in the harbor when the whale came close enough to her that she could see what looked to her like yellow line or rope wrapped around the animal near its tail. She continued to observe the whale for a time, from a longer distance upon finding out about the 100yard rule. Rope was also observed—by this reporter—trailing behind the animal as it swam past the Catalina Express vessel as it was being readied for the day’s trip to the island.

The boat captain graciously allowed me to climb aboard for a better vantage point. The view from the bow afforded a clear view from above as the whale moved slowly past and back toward the harbor mouth.

“It was the most staggeringly awe inspiring moment that I’ve ever had in the water,” said Engelking. “I’ve never been that close to anything like that before.”

On his way out he lingered around the bait barge for a time then made his way out around the jetty and headed toward the beach at Doheny. The whale then spent several hours just floating around, breaching, spouting and lingering in the rocky shallows referred to by surfers as “the boneyard.”

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A disentanglement team works to free Lily from more than 100 pounds of netting, lines and rope near Baby Beach. Courtesy of the Ocean Institute

By this time, the stray whale had attracted the attention of hundreds of onlookers. Television news reporters were stationed with their cameramen along the jetty as news helicopters hovered overhead.

Upon hearing the reports of civilian observations of possible entanglement on the whale’s tail fluke, authorities alerted NOAA’s (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) Whale Entanglement Team (WET) and the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) that there appeared to be rope entangling the whale near the tail fluke and left pectoral fin.

Dean Gomersall, an Animal Care Supervisor from the Pacific Marine Mammal Center, was among the observers watching from the jetty as the whale lingered at Doheny Beach. Gomersall was aware of reports of rope entanglement on the whale and was looking to make the official visual confirmation of entanglement—necessary to enlist the help of SeaWorld in removing it. Gomersall found visual confirmation to be difficult because the whale had not shown its tail fluke above water at any time on Monday or Tuesday. At one point, the whale did come up very close to the jetty allowing Gomersall to get a visual on some line or rope trailing behind the whale, SeaWorld was called in and a team was assembled to carry out a plan to help the whale the following morning.

“We have a plan in place to try to remove the entanglement but it really is unknown whether removing it will have any effect on saving this animal,” said Gomersall, late Tuesday afternoon. “It very well may be that the whale is nearing the natural end of its life. He does appear to be thin and unhealthy. Who knows, maybe the rope’s removal will allow the whale to swim more freely, feed and return to health. We just don’t know for sure, but we’ll definitely be giving it a try.”

At that time, due to his very thin body and listless demeanor, marine biologists still believed the whale to be elderly and ailing. Other signs that the whale may be elderly include the heavy encrustation of barnacles, whale lice and algae typical of older whales. The heavy algae growth may also signify that the whale has spent too much time in warm water.

Most gray whales are well on their way to the Arctic waters of Northern Alaska by now. This one may have been left behind, unable to make the long 5,000-mile journey, according to marine biologists. The annual gray whale migration—from calving lagoons in Baja, Mexico to cold-water feeding grounds in the north—sees the animals pass by Dana Point from mid-February through the end of April. It is rare to see a straggler this late in the season

unless it’s a lost calf separated from its mother or a senior member of a pod, ready to pass away.

As of 3 p.m. on Tuesday, the whale was still swimming outside of the harbor at Doheny Beach near the rock jetty.

The “disentanglement team,” including Gomersall, Eric Otjen of the Mammal Department at SeaWorld and Dana Point’s own Dave Anderson of Capt. Dave’s Dolphin and Whale Safari boarded a small Zodiac boat and carefully worked on freeing the whale from its entanglements as it floated docilely in the water just off of Baby Beach near the Ocean Institute. With cutting instruments on long poles, the team worked for more than two hours cutting away 100 to 150 pounds of gill netting, line, nylon rope and other fishing equipment. The team found the whale to be more tangled in the mess than first believed. They removed line from the whale’s mouth in addition to the left dorsal fin and tail.

A few other unexpected discoveries about the whale were made by biologists during the rescue—he is actually a “she” and believed to be a juvenile. The heavy encrustation is believed to be due to her slow speed caused by the impediment of the entanglement.

Biologists watched as the whale, now cut free, seemed to pick up speed and head out back toward the open water.

The crowds of spectators clapped and cheered as the whale, dubbed Lily—Get it? Free Lily—appeared to be headed north to catch up to her pod well on their way toward their coldwater feeding grounds.

Engleking, the stand up paddler who shared a moment with Lily on Tuesday was back at the harbor with her 10-yearold son to watch, said, “I’m keeping her in my prayers and hoping she makes it North. Maybe she’ll swim by for a visit next year.”

Unfortunately, all the hopes and prayers of Lily’s new group of human friends and well-wishers may not be enough to save her. The sound of helicopters over Dana Point Harbor on Thursday morning alerted me to the possibility that Lily had again returned. A quick call to Deputy Martin at Harbor Patrol confirmed that, in fact Lily has not headed north.

Ocean Institute whale specialist Mike Bursk headed out with a whale watching expedition at about 7:30 a.m. and said that as they passed by, it appeared to him that the whale was not really going anywhere on her own but simply going with the current.

“We received reports that the whale was seen in the waters off Doheny Beach at about 8:00 a.m. this morning,” said Martin.

As of noon, Anderson reported that the whale was outside the surfline at Capo Beach and seemed to be breathing well, although still not paddling very actively. DP www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

Business Beat

BY ANDREA SWAYNE

News and updates on Dana Point’s business community

SPECIAL EVENTS/NOTICES u Food and Wine Tasting Celebrate the season with Da Vine Food and Wine as they present an evening of good food, good wine and good times on May 21 from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Gemmell’s Restaurant banquet room, 34483 Golden Lantern.

The evening will feature a tasting menu prepared by Chef Nancy and featuring products and recipes from the award winning purveyor of specialty foods, Stonewall Kitchen. Each of the five courses served will be paired with a hand-selected wine from one of California’s premier boutique wineries.

Tickets are $45 per person and include food, wine and a complete recipe guide with easy to follow instructions. Also included in the price will be a “create your own sundae” bar to top off this fun-filled night.

Seating is limited and tickets must be purchased in advance at www.davine-wine.com or in store. For more information, call 949.493.4044. Due to the nature of this event, there will be no refunds. u Game Drive Make a Wish Foundation and The UPS Store locations have joined forces with OC-based non-profit Donate Games to host a month long video game drive. Throughout May “Spring Cleaning for a Cause” will offer families the opportunity

to clean out their gaming closets for a good cause.

Seventy-five UPS Store locations, including two in Dana Point, will be accepting donations of used video games, game consoles and game peripherals throughout the entire month.

The participating Dana Point locations are: 34145 Pacific Coast Highway and 14 Monarch Bay Plaza.

Funds from the game drive will go towards medical research and granting wishes for children with rare orphan diseases. For more information about the Make a Wish Foundation, log on to www.socalwish.org. For more on Donate Games, please visit their website at www.donategames.org. u Now Open for Dinner Proud Mary’s Restaurant at 34689 Golden Lantern in the Dana Point Harbor is now open for dinner. Since surviving a fire in 2007, the 33-year-old establishment—owned by the Merrill family for 28 years and the Zdrakas and Roberts family for the last five years—has been rebuilt to include an all-weather, temperature controlled, waterfront patio and a beautiful new granite bar. In addition, an expanded menu is being offered.

Proud Mary’s is open Monday through Wednesday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Thursday through Sunday: 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Reservations are not necessary. For more information, please call 949.493.5853 or log on to www.proudmarysdp.com.

JOB TRAINING FOR YOUTH u Babysitter Boot Camp The American Red Cross of Orange County is offering five Babysitter Boot Camps this summer to help babysitters find jobs and do them properly.

The Boot Camp combines stellar American Red Cross training with information that babysitters need to know to be prepared and professional. Hands-on activities, exciting videos, CPR and First Aid certifications, role-plays and lively discussions will be used to help potential babysitters learn how to safely supervise infants and children.

In addition, the Boot Camp provides fledgling entrepreneurs with an organizer, a printable activity booklet and a resume template to run their babysitting business. Attendees will also receive a babysitter’s training handbook, emergency reference guide as well as a mini First Aid kit and babysitter’s portfolio.

Babysitter Boot Camp sessions are available beginning June 21, July 12, July 26, August 9 and August 23. The five-day program is geared towards 11-to 15-year-olds and runs 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day.

Cost for the fun, fast-paced and interactive course is $150.

For more information or to register, please contact Matt Catanzaro at 714.481.5346 or mcatanzaro@oc-redcross.org.

HARBOR HAPPENINGS

Special Needs Kids ‘Fish for Life!’

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caught a fish and saw so many dolphin,” exclaimed Alexander Silcock, 14, of Huntington Beach. “It was so fun!” Alexander and his brothers, David, 12, and Jordan, 13, all afflicted with disabilities, have never been fishing off a boat in the ocean before. David is the competitive of the three and hoped to catch the biggest fish of the day.

Thirty-three kids with special needs experienced the thrill of sportfishing in this first-time event in the waters off of Dana Point thanks to Fish for Life, a nonprofit organization.

Alexander, who had never been on a boat before, joined boys and girls afflicted with Cerebral

BY ROXANN Palsy, Epilepsy, Autism, Down POPE Syndrome, brain injury, mental retardation and other conditions aboard Dana Wharf’s 95-foot Dana Pride following an introduction and red carpet journey down the ramp to the boat.

“We wanted the kids to feel exceptionally special, so we rolled out the red carpet for them—literally,” said Fish for Life Founder, Jim Holden. “Our goal was to give these kids an adventure they wouldn’t typically get to enjoy—a day on the ocean catching fish and experiencing all of its wonders, including dolphin, birds, sea lions and the majesty of the sea.”

The event was sponsored by Friends of Rollo and Dana Wharf among others. Friends of Rollo is a nonprofit organization that provides ocean adventures for over 50,000 kids annually throughout Southern California. “Jim did a great job pulling this together—it was well organized and everyone did their part to ensure these kids had a memorable experience,” said Friends of Rollo Director John Rowe.

“Elias loves dolphin, so going through the huge pod of dophin just made his day!” said Elias’ mom, Janelle Bentancourt. Elias, 16, suffers from Cerebral Palsy and is in a wheelchair, but that doesn’t stop him from playing baseball, swimming or traveling and it certainly didn’t stop him from enjoying the fishing excursion. “Seeing all the dolphin was the best. They were all around the boat! The fishing was fun, too,” said Elias.

“Are you ready to catch some fish?” renowned marine artist Wyland asked the anxious crowd who screamed in delight and anticipation. “You are all such incredible kids

Page 8 • Dana Point Times • May 14–20, 2010

Devin Hafey is proud of her catch, a beautiful red sheephead.

Photo by Frank Armstrong

and I hope you find your love of the ocean like I have.” The noted “Marine Michelangelo” donated signature prints depicting ocean life and mammals.

Kids, family members, mentors, volunteers and crew were welcomed by Donna Kalez of Dana Wharf Whale Sportfishing and Watching and Dana Point Mayor Steven Weinberg. “We take hundreds of kids fishing every year through our Kids Club program, but this was a chance for us to introduce the sport of fishing to these kids who really wanted and needed the experience,” said Kalez. “This event really helped me to see the joys that fishing can bring to special needs children. I am hooked on this program and Dana Wharf will continue to support it.”

Escorted out of the harbor by the Orange County Sherriff’s Fire Boat, the adventure began with a demonstration of safety procedures (how not to hook each other), how to bait, cast and reel in their days’ catch of Mackerel, Calico Bass and Sculpin. One Stingray was caught, displayed to the kids and then released back into the ocean.

Volunteers included fishing team leaders, food servers, photographers and a videographer. Fishing team leaders ensured safe and responsible fishing practices were followed while food servers passed appetizer trays and saw to the anglers’ every need. Lunch included the perfect bagel sandwiches provided by Bagel Shack and Billy’s Market, both of San Clemente.

“It was really cool,” said volunteer Holly Pope, 13. “It was fun watching everyone help each other catch fish— and nobody got seasick.”

“Thank you so much for providing our family with such a wonderful fishing experience. We never thought we, especially our son Alex, would enjoy it so much. He was very excited that he actually caught three small fish. We will treasure the memories and are definitely more comfortable fishing with Alex on our own,” said Alex’s Mom Jenny Tran.

The event was inspired by Jeffrey Kutcher, a boy who suffers from Cerebral Palsy and who Holden has befriended and encouraged for over three years. “No words can describe this event and how proud I am that my son was the inspiration. My sincere thanks to Jim for all the incredible work he put into this unbelievable project for these special kids who, for the most part, are ignored by society,” said Gifi Kutcher, Jeffrey’s mom.

The trip was booked within 24 hours of confirming with Dana Wharf and there are 21 kids on a waiting list for the next one. The demand is high, but the funds are low. Fish for Life is actively pursuing sponsors for future events.

“Even with the generosity of our supporters, these events cost money and take a lot of time. All donations are 100 percent deductable and go directly to facilitating fishing trips for special needs kids,” explained Holden. For information about Fish for Life or to donate, please visit www. fishforlife.org. DP

Dana Pride. Photo by Frank Armstrong

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Eye on DP

News Next Door

What’s going on in our neighboring towns, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano SAN CLEMENTE

Student Art Show at Casa Romantica Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, 415 Avenida Granada, unveiled its newest exhibit, “Tomorrow’s Artists Today,” with a student art reception May 7.

The 7th Annual San Clemente Student Art Showcase opened last weekend and will continue through June 6. Overall, the exhibit features about 200 drawings, paintings, ceramics and photos by students from San Clemente High School, Shorecliffs Middle School and Bernice Ayer Middle School.

The preview on May 7 honored the students and teachers as well as the numerous supporters of the arts.

During the reception, the San Clemente Art Association gave the following awards to the winner’s in their respective categories: BEST OF SHOW •Drawing/painting: Turner Wilcox. Honorable mention, Ashley Schoenfeld. •Ceramics: Melanie Gallagher.

Honorable mention, Erin Anderson. •Photography: Lauren Fryer. Honorable mention, Lauren Ferdig.

MIDDLE SCHOOL •Shorecliffs: First place, Shea Porter (seventh grade). Honorable mentions went to James Whelan (seventh grade), Danielle Zarate (seventh grade) and Rocket Comiske-Klein (seventh grade). Andrea Rish teaches the students. •Bernice Ayer: First place, Kyra Palmer-Alcocer (eighth grade).

Honorable mentions went to Ian Fletch (seventh grade) and Sarah Didier (eighth grade).

Jenny Rosien teaches the students. $1,000 SCHOLARSHIPS •Drawing/painting: Turner Wilcox won the Alice Waldo Scholarship, and Morgan Reilly Sears won the Vern Willey Scholarship. •Ceramics: Katherine Cox won the Stephanie Dorey Scholarship.

•Photography: Paige Linden won the Barry Berg Scholarship and the Linda Stone Memorial Scholarship.

The hours at Casa Romantica are from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesdays and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. General admission is $5. For more information, call 949.498.2139 or visit www.casaromantica.org.

Cinco De Mayo Fiesta Well Attended The vivid colors, tastes and sounds of Mexican culture were brought to life Saturday, May 8 at the 20th Annual Cinco de Mayo Fiesta at Max Berg Park. People, young and old, were able to enjoy activities ranging from sampling salsas made by local restaurants to admiring artwork created by community artists.

The Quick Draw Plein Air Spanish Village by the Sea art contest was one of the many ways visitors could appreciate local artistic talent. The competitors, both amateur and professional, were given approximately two and a half hours to complete their work of art.

“Many people are awed by the ease of how they paint in such a short period of time,” said Barbara Ross, artist and founder of Ocean View Gallery, 726 Calle Divino. Terry Lyle won first place in the amateur contest with an oil painting of St. Clements by the Sea Episcopal Church. Rick Delanty achieved a first place title in the professional contest with an oil still-life painting. The judging panel was Page 10 • Dana Point Times • May 14–20, 2010

Students check out the artwork at Casa Romantica’s “Tomorrow’s Artists Today” exhibit. Photo by David Zimmerle

comprised of well-known local artists the likes of Javier Alvarez, Rick Delanty, Evie Fernandez and Philip Journeay.

In addition to art, salsa made from many local restaurants and vendors, including El Mariachi, Ricardo’s Place, and Crispin’s, was up for evaluation as well. Through much deliberation, Ricardo Beas, of Ricardo’s Place in San Juan Capistrano, took home the first-place prize for best salsa.

Expert chefs from the restaurant created his unique recipe. The salsa was made with a blend of ingredients including pineapple and tamarindo, which gave it a distinctive fruity flavor. The Cinco de Mayo Fiesta Salsa Showdown was the first official contest that Ricardo’s salsa was entered in.

City to Host Emergency Expo The City of San Clemente will host an Emergency Expo May 22 from noon to 3 p.m. at the San Clemente Community Center, as the month of May is Emergency Preparedness Month and disaster can strike at anytime. It is important that the community is prepared and this event will help the City increase public education and outreach efforts to residents about emergency planning and preparedness.

“We need to be prepared for likely disasters that may affect our community such as earthquakes, fires or floods and although unlikely, it’s important the public is informed of emergency plans we have in place for an incident at the nuclear plant.

A disaster doesn’t wait, and that is why it’s important to prepare in advance so we are ready when an emergency presents itself,” said Mayor Jim Dahl.

The City of San Clemente will be joined

by Southern California Edison, Saddleback Memorial Medical Center, Doctor’s Ambulance Service, Coastal Animal Services Authority, Ready OC, the Orange County

Fire Authority, the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, Tri-Cities Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES) and other community emergency response organizations. Display tables and interactive activities and safety demonstrations are planned for residents. Those attending will also have an opportunity to win raffle prizes. Southern California Edison and the City of San Clemente are cosponsors of the event.

If you have questions or are interested in exhibiting emergency/safety supplies or services at the event, call Emergency Planning Officer Jen Tucker at 949.361.6109.

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

Regency San Juan Capistrano Theater Opens Regency Theatres celebrated the grand opening of the Regency San Juan Capistrano Theater located in downtown San Juan Capistrano in the Franciscan Plaza on Friday, May 7.

Regency’s San Juan Capistrano Theater will play first-run commercial films with state-of-the-art Dolby Digital Sound and will also offer films in 3D. The theater boasts a total of four auditoriums with stadium-seating and an upstairs VIP auditorium featuring reserved seating, high-back leather chairs and in-seat dining.

Stepping into the Regency San Juan Capistrano Theater is like stepping into a scene right out of the classic film “Casablanca,” with its Moroccan motif and Rick’s Café Americain, a beer and wine bar with a complete restaurant menu. While watching movies at the Regency San Juan Capistrano Theater, patrons can have their food and beverages delivered to their seats. The theater will also offer concession stand favorites including fresh hot popcorn with real butter, ice cold Pepsi products and world-famous Eisenberg Hot Dogs.

“We are extremely excited about the

opening of our new theater in San Juan Capistrano. The addition of our full-service restaurant, Rick’s Café, and the ability to offer our guests wine, beer and great food while enjoying their favorite films in luxurious seats is a dream realized,” said Lyndon Golin, President of Regency Theatres.

Opening day movies included the highly anticipated “Iron Man 2” presented in both 2D and 3D, Disney’s spectacular nature documentary, “Oceans,” as well as the romantic comedy “The Backup Plan,” starring Jennifer Lopez.

The theater is located only steps away from the San Juan Capistrano Amtrak train station at 26762 Verdugo Street. Movie information and ticketing is available at Regency Theatres’ website www.regencymovies.com.

Based in Calabasas, family-owned Regency Theatres was founded in 1996 and operates 21 locations in Southern California as well as Denver, Colorado.

Anti-graffiti Ordinance Passed The San Juan Capistrano City Council this month unanimously approved a new anti-graffiti ordinance that makes parents responsible for graffiti vandalism caused by their kids. The ordinance, which goes into effect in 30 days, also includes a $500 reward for anyone who turns in a tagger.

The council’s move comes after a rash of graffiti vandalism earlier this year in the downtown.

The ordinance declares graffiti a public nuisance and establishes specific procedures to eradicate it. Under the ordinance, minors cannot possess graffiti “implements” in all public places, with limited exceptions.

Graffiti implements include aerosol paint containers, felt tip markers, etching tools, paint sticks or graffiti sticks, adhesive stickers, spray actuators, marking pens, drill bits, grinding stones or any other similar item. www.danapointtimes.com

Eye on DP

News Bites

Compiled by Andrea Swayne

Props, Recognitions and Morsels of Info Camp Bow Wow and Home Buddies by Camp Bow Wow, the nation’s largest pet services company is offering a unique way to help with efforts to clean up the recent Gulf oil spill. The company has reached out to all of its franchisees (200+ throughout the US and Canada), asking them to collect human hair, dog hair and fur after a pet’s grooming, which will then be used to create oil booms to help ameliorate the disaster.

Franchisees will be donating any type of fur, hair, feathers, natural fibers and used nylons to create oil booms, which will help soak up oil from the spill in the Gulf. These fur oil booms are then used to contain the spill. Matter of Trust, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, is coordinating this effort nationwide by sending all fur/hair to the region. As a leader in the pet services industry, Camp Bow Wow and Home Buddies are helping to bring this effort to light and raise awareness for the ways in which companies can help out on the local and national level.

Individual franchises throughout the US will be aiding in collecting hair/fur/fibers from their neighborhoods and bringing awareness to this cause by putting up flyers, info on their websites, etc.

Camp Bow Wow San Clemente is leading the local effort in South Orange County and working together with local groomers, vets and hair salons to collaborate in the collection process.

“As there are growing concerns that the oil spill in the Gulf may now eclipse the Exxon Valdez spill, we want to do our part in helping with the cleanup. Pet hair is an absorbent and can be used to create oil absorbing mats. By collecting pet hair after grooming at our franchise locations, we will be able to use our resources to aid in the effort,” said Heidi Ganahl, CEO and Founder of Camp Bow Wow and Home Buddies.

If you are a private individual, hair salon or groomer interested in donating, please visit Camp Bow Wow San Clemente to drop off hair/ fur or call 949.218.7387 for more information.

The Camp Bow Wow website can be found at www.campbowwow.com/sanclemente.

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The San Clemente-Dana Point Animal Shelter is holding a Kitten Shower to train and inform people interested in providing foster homes for kittens and cats.

The Kitten shower will be held at the shelter on Sunday, May 23, from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

The shelter is looking for responsible homes in the South Orange County area with a person who has the time to socialize and the ability to transport kittens and cats to vets’ offices and to the shelter as required.

Ideally, homes will have no children under six years old and have area within the house away from any other pets, such as an extra room or bathroom.

PPF (Pet Project Foundation, a volunteer group) will provide all food, supplies and pay veterinarian expenses...the only thing that the foster families have to provide is time, love and transportation (as needed).

If you’re interested in coming to the Kitten Shower, please RSVP to Cindi Kane at the Shelter 949.492.1617 or email her at kanec@ san-clementa.org. Interested parties may also contact Carol Kuhn at 949.496.0814 or email her at karlcarol@cox.net.

The South Orange County School of the Arts (SOCSA) at Dana Hills High School has two programs scheduled for the month of May. All performances will be held at 7 p.m. in the Porthole Theater on campus at the high school, 33333 Golden Lantern.

Jazz Night is Friday, May 14, featuring Dana Hills’ illustrious student SOCSA Jazz Band, led by SOCSA Band Director Mr. Steve Wade, and our talented student Vocal Jazz Ensemble and Jazz soloists who will sing your favorite jazz tunes, directed by SOCSA’s Artistic Director, Mr. Ray Woods.

The spring play, “Moon Over Buffalo” will run May 21, 22 and 23. Directed by Pattie Sexton, this backstage farce, tells the story of Charlotte and George Hay, an acting couple who are not exactly the Lunts. While on tour in Buffalo in 1953, in Cyrano de Bergerac (“the revised, one nostril version”) and Noel Coward’s “Private Lives,” fate gives these thespians one last shot at starring roles in the movie version of “The Twilight of the Scarlet Pimpernel.” Missing actors, mistaken identities, a surprise appearance by Frank Capra and a deaf Grandma make this a fast paced comedy not to be missed.

Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for students and seniors and may be purchased at www.socarts.org or at the door.

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All three candidates for County Sheriff will speak at the Dana Point Civic Association’s next monthly coffee chat, Friday May 21.

Sheriff Sandra Hutchens will be joined by challengers Bill Hunt and Craig Hunter at the meeting beginning at 8:30 a.m. at Coffee Importers in the harbor at 34531 Golden Lantern.

The public is invited. For more information, call Pat Fairbanks at 949.661.9999.

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Top fundraisers (L-R) Lang Csira, Kaia Wolfe and Alanna McClennen. Courtesy photo

Students from Broderick Montessori School in Dana Point participated in a read-a-thon called “Children changing the world through reading” to help raise money for families in need worldwide.

The Elementary class consisting of 17 first graders and three second graders, raised $6000 in a two week read-a-thon. The children were given the opportunity to set their own goals with their parents’ guidance. Some chose to be paid per page, others per book. The children really went beyond their duty. Not only did they receive money from family, but neighbors and friends participated too. With the money raised the children have chosen to purchase through World Vision, 54 goats, five rabbits, 110 chickens and a water well. Top fundraisers include Lang Csira-over $2000, Alanna McClennen-$1300 and Kaia Wolfe-$1091. Students reside in Mission Viejo, Laguna Beach, Laguna Niguel, Ladera Ranch, San Clemente and Dana Point

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Advance ticket special pricing for the Doheny Blues Festival will be available through May 21. The event will be held May 22 and 23 at Doheny State Beach. Headliners include Crosby Stills and Nash and the Black Crowes.

Buy tickets now and save $5 per person.

Tickets are available at all Southern California Wahoo’s Fish Tacos locations and the Doheny State Beach Visitor’s Center as well as online.

Ticket pricing and full lineup information is available on the website at www.omegaevents. com/dohenyblues.

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Page 12 • Dana Point Times • May 14–20, 2010

The OC Fair is inviting all local craftspeople, bakers, wine-makers, home beer brewers, farmers, gardeners, photographers and other artisans (of all ages) to display their talents in one of the hundreds of 2010 OC Fair competitions and contests.

People with some talent and a little competitive spirit can enter in a variety of competitions and contests covering everything from baking and crafts to homemade beer and wine-making or graphic arts and sculpture. Winning entries will be displayed for more than a million fair-goers to view throughout the 2010 OC Fair, July 16-August 15.

For more information on the various 2010 OC Fair competitions and contests or to complete an online entry form visit ocfair. com/competitions. The deadline to submit entry forms for most of the competitions is May 26.

The 2010 OC Fair, themed The Beat Goes On, runs July 16 – August 15 and will bring 23 days of food, rides, exhibits, animals, music and fun, as well as the popular Super Pass, Pacific Amphitheatre Summer Concert Series, Action Sports Arena and the new entertainment complex, The Hangar.

The Fair is open Wednesday-Sunday.

The OC Fair & Event Center is located off the 405 and 55 freeways at 88 Fair Drive in Costa Mesa. For more information, please visit www.ocfair.com, call 714.708.1500 or follow on Twitter at twitter.com/ocfair.

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Courtesy photo

The Pet Project Foundation has partnered with the pro-humane San Clemente-Dana Point Animal Shelter to build new kitty-friendly quarters for the homeless cats in our community. A limited quantity of commemorative wall tiles are now available to help fund the cost of building this new cat room addition whose aim is to move cats out of the cramped, steel cages in which they currently reside into more spacious quarters. With the purchase of a tile, donors can honor or memorialize a family member, friend, or favorite pet, give a gift in honor of a special occasion, or celebrate their special connection with the shelter or Pet Project Foundation. Commemorative Wall Tiles are available in either 8” x 8” ($1000 donation) or 4” x 4” ($500 donation) sizes.

Both sets of tiles will be prominently displayed on an interior wall in the new cat room addition.

For more information and to order, visit the “donations” page at www.ppfcatroom.org, or call Pet Project Foundation at 949.595.8899.

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Have something interesting for the community? Tell us about awards, events, happenings, accomplishments and more. Forward a picture along, too! We’ll put your submissions into “News Bites.” Send your information to editorial@danapointtimes.com. www.danapointtimes.com

SOAPBOX

2

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

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Dana Point Times, Vol. 3, Issue 20. The DP Times (www.danapointtimes.com ) is published weekly by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the SC Times (www.sanclementetimes.com) and The Capistrano Dispatch (www.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 2010. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

PICKET FENCE MEDIA CEO Norb Garrett EDITORIAL Group Editor, Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Jonathan Volzke City Editor, DP Times > Andrea Swayne City Reporter, SC Times > David Zimmerle ART/Design Senior Designer > Jasmine Smith Graphic Designer > Heidi Mefferd

GUEST OPINION: By Beverli Jinn

The Proof Is in the Podding P aul Peck, Rod Howorth, and I met for coffee some time ago. We managed to shout our way through a deep discussion, “deep” not because we’re such great intellectuals but because we were talking about whales. It was October, the time of year when gray whales start thinking about heading south to mess around in their favorite Baja lagoons.

“They travel in pods,” I suggested to Rod and Paul. I wanted to talk about pods. Can you imagine?

My statement met with two blank stares. “Pods?” Rod asked skeptically. “How do you get a thirtyton whale into a pod?”

Now it was my turn to offer a blank stare.

What was he talking about?

“A pod is a part of a space vehicle,” he said.

“I thought a pod was what you find peas in,” Paul offered, further confusing the Beverly Jinn issue.

I stared tentatively at Paul and then back at Rod. They were putting me on. Right? How could anybody live in Dana Point, the gray whale capital of the world, and not know that a pod refers to a social group of whales? Haven’t they been out on the boat? What would they have shouted if they’d seen a bunch of whales frolicking southward? “Look! A gaggle of whales!” What would Captain Dave have thought about that?

“Gray whales like to hang out with other whales,” I explained. “It’s safer that way.” I looked from Paul to Rod and back again, examining their facial expressions. “It’s more fun that way.”

Do whales have fun? I don’t know. I like to think they do.

“A pod of whales,” Rod repeated.

I nodded.

“Could there be a pod of people?” Paul asked, his lips now

set in a mischievous smile.

Aha! A pod of people! Shared concerns! Activities in common! Fun together! It’s exactly the way that most of us here in Dana Point like to envision ourselves.

You don’t have to be a whale to enjoy your pod!

“What do you want from me?” Rod’s expression said.

“Of course there could be a pod of people,” I insisted.

“That’s what the community of Dana Point needs to become!”

“That’s what we already are,” Rod said patiently.

I looked at Paul. His smile was thinner now.

“What’s the population of Dana Point?” I asked.

Rod shrugged his shoulders. “Forty thousand, maybe,” he guessed.

“Okay, let’s say that’s right,” I said, not knowing any more about the people population than about the number of whales cruising southward. “And how many of those forty thousand actively do anything to take care of the watershed?”

The corners of Paul’s smile were drooping.

“How many still use plastic bags? How many hide ewaste or medications in the regular trash? How many toss their cigarette butts onto the sidewalk?”

The canned music inside the coffee shop abruptly became intrusive. At a nearby table, a guy with a lot of facial hair laughed raucously. I gazed beyond him toward a fussy little kid whose mother was bouncing him futilely on her lap.

Our pod was out of control. More than that, our pod was not (could not be) a pod at all. Forty thousand people represented forty thousand points of view, forty thousand lifestyles, forty thousand joys and concerns. Some of us would work to save the ocean; most of us would not.

Letters to the Editor Response to Cruise Ship Naysayers Chris Anastasio, Dana Point

I just read the letters (DP Times, Vol. 3, Issue 18) saying cruise ships stopping at Dana Point is a bad idea. I would like to respond to some of the criticism. Cruise ships do not just dump their waste. If you knew the process it goes through before this happens it would amaze you. I can tell you it is no worse, and probably better, than what is pouring out of the out pipe, one mile off shore from our own treatment plant. And cruise ships are out there many miles further doing it. Yes, the ports in Mexico are full of junk shops and kids selling Chiclets.

But you don’t have to go to a port to see that, just cross the border. And yes there are some ports in the Caribbean like that, but that’s just what you will find on that island. You will find the same thing at the airport at that same stop. Now go to Saint Bart or Saint Thomas or Jamaica or many other islands, how about Tahiti, Bora Bora or Morrea—all beautiful stops.

By the way, do these folks know a cruise ship stops at Catalina every week and has been for years? I don’t see any adverse Page 14 • Dana Point Times • May 14–20, 2010

effect there and I don’t hear of the locals trying to stop it.

As for the town being over crowded, I don’t think it would be any more congested during the week with one ship stopping than it is now on a weekend when we get every out of towner within 50 miles coming here to have a picnic. Now there’s a mess, and they don’t usually spend any money while they are here. Should we stop them too?

If you have ever been on a cruise and taken a tender ashore, you would know we have plenty of places for the tender to dock. (Think again of Catalina.) And to say a beautiful cruise ship anchored offshore is an eyesore is a bad stretch.

And every small boat will not have to get out of their way any more than they have to for the Catalina Express boat.

Yes, a lot of the tours would be out of town but that goes with the territory. This happens in every port. But it’s like they say “the tide it raises all boats big and small.” Yes, San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente and Laguna would make out, but so would Dana Point with all that we have to offer.

Most cruise ships leave port by 5 or 6 p.m. I can’t see how that is going to be a problem with getting a dinner reser-

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Online Reader Poll Where do you stand on the issue of legalizing marijuana?

I am totally against it. It is a bad idea.

24% I am for it. I think it should be legal.

71% I am either indiffernent or have not made a firm decision.

5% Make sure to sound off each week on the “DP Times Poll of the Week” at www.danapointtimes.com. Then go to our community Message Board and share your opinions. www.danapointtimes.com. Bookmark it today!

The DP Times Online Reader Polls are not scientific and do not reflect the opinion of the DP Times.

CORRECTION: Due to constraints with editorial space, two stories in our last edition (Vol.3, Issue 19) needed to be cut.

We regret that shortened versions of unfinished, unedited stories accidentally found their way into print. Please log on to www.danapointtimes.com for full, corrected versions of: “How Do You Spell Corinthian?” and “Lights, Camera, Action!” A footnote directing readers to log on to the website to read the full-length cover story, “In the S-pot-light” was also erroneously left out. Our apologies.

I looked toward Paul again. Silently he met my gaze and raised his eyebrows in resignation. “We’ve got a pod of three,” his smile said.

PLEASE NOTE: The opinions offered here are solely those of the guest columnist and may or may not be shared by the Dana Point Times staff. We appreciate, however, their willingness to share their views, and we invite responses to be sent to letters@danapointtimes.com.

vation unless you only eat at that time. I have been on more cruises than you can imagine and I have never seen a ship bellowing smoke. As for the constant horn going off, I don’t know what ships you have been on? I have only heard a ship make four blasts when it is leaving. It’s a good bye and to let others know they are leaving.

And last, this is only being done to promote business and to put people to work. Well hello!! Of course that’s the reason. Why else would thousands of ports all over the world have ships stopping there? It’s called tourism and it is a big business and God knows Dana Point could use more of it. Would you like to close all the hotels and stores so you can take peaceful walks or runs through our beautiful harbor? Ships stopping here would put a lot of folks to work and bring a lot of money into our city.

Yes I believe having a cruise ship stop at Dana Point is a good idea and it’s way overdue.

PLEASE NOTE: The opinions offered here are solely those of the guest columnist and may or may not be shared by the Dana Point Times staff. We appreciate, however, their willingness to share their views, and we invite responses to be sent to letters@danapointtimes.com.

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GETTING OUT

GO SEE DO

COASTAL ARTS CONCERT SERIES

The final performance of the Dana Point Coastal Arts Concert Series is scheduled for Thursday, May 20, 7:30 p.m. at St. Edward’s Church featuring violin virtuoso Mira Khomik.

Khomik is the winner of the Chapman Instrumental Competition and a current member of several other orchestras and ensembles such as Mozart Classical Orchestra, Capistrano Valley Symphony Orchestra, Jimmy Hopper Band, El Real Chamber Players, based in Orange County, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas. The concert will include masterful performances of works by Beethoven, Shostakovich and Ravel.

The series is a collaborative effort between Dana Point Coastal Arts and the city to bring world-class classical music performances to Dana Point and cultivate new generations of appreciative listeners.

A nonprofit community leader in promoting excellence among artists, Dana Point Coastal Arts views this endeavor as stimulating and artistic cultural entertainment for the community, one that builds community focus as well as civic involvement.

Ticket prices are $12 for adults and $8 for seniors (65 and over) and students. Free to the Military. St. Edward’s Church is located at 33926 Calle La Primavera in Dana Point. Tickets may be purchased at the door or online at www.dpcoastalarts.org. —AS

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

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D a n a Po i nt

Mira Khomik. Courtesy photo

THE LIST

A day-by-day guide to what’s happening in and around town this week. COMPILED BY TAWNEE PRAZAK

friday14 forecast: sunny • high: 74° low: 53°

FROGMORE CREEK WINERY WINE TASTING 5:30 p.m.–9 p.m. with Tony Scherer, Frogmore Creek head winemaker. Winery-only, new releases and raffle. Tasting fee $15 for seven wines with cheese, crackers & chocolate. San Clemente Wine Company. 212 1/2 Avenida Del Mar, 949.429.7067, www.scwinecompany.com.

NEWPORT JAZZ FESTIVAL

8 p.m. Weekend-long music festival kick-off the Hyatt Regency’s Summer Jazz Amphitheater. Tickets start at $45. 1107 Jamboree Road, Newport Beach, 949.729.1234, www.summerjazzseries.com.

LOS BURRACHOS MUERTOS

9 p.m.-2 a.m. Free concert at Coconuts. 34235 Doheny Park Road, Capistrano Beach, 949.248.2448.

PAWS IN THE GARDEN

10 a.m.–3 p.m. The Ark of San Juan’s 2nd Annual Garden Tour features five local gardens. Proceeds help The Ark continue saving abandoned pets. Pre-sold tickets $10 or $15 at the door. For details, ticket orders & maps visit www.arkofsanjuan.org.

DANA POINT FARMERS MARKET

9 a.m.-1 p.m. Fresh produce and much more every Saturday at La Plaza Park, intersection of PCH and Golden Lantern.

CARE PET ADOPTION DAY

12 p.m.–4 p.m. Capistrano Animal Rescue Effort hosts pet adoption day with rescued animals at San Juan Capistrano PetSmart.

Gallery of available pets online. 33963 Doheny Park Road, San Juan Capistrano, 949.240.1735, www.capoanimalrescue.com.

2010 DOHENY BEACH SUNSET MEMORY WALK OR RIDE

1 p.m. Part of the nation’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer care, support and research at Doheny Beach. Free. 25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.955.9000.

KATHY GRIFFIN

7:30 p.m. Funny female comedian at the OC Performing Arts Center. Tickets start at $46. 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.ARTS, www.ocpac.org.

DE ANGELIS VOCAL ENSEMBLE

8 p.m.-11 p.m. Top 40 music at Salt Creek Grille. 32802 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.661.7799, www.saltcreekgrille.com.

8 p.m. Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano hosts a musical program. General admission $25. 31520 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 714.928.9567, www.deangelisensemble.org.

HELICOPTER

RED NOT CHILI PEPPERS

JR LEWIS BAND

8 p.m.-11:30 p.m. Mixed rock at Renaissance. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.renaissance-danapoint.com.

“RUMORS”

8 p.m. Catch the hilarious play before its final showing May 16 at the Cabrillo Playhouse. 202 Avenida Cabrillo, San Clemente, 949.492.0465, www.cabrilloplayhouse.org.

SMOOTHIE JONES & THE RED X

9 p.m. Happy hour at BeachFire all night for guests dressed “Island-Style.” Live reggae music. No cover. 204 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.366.3232, www.beachfire.com.

Y&T

8 p.m. They set the standard for hard rock in the ’70s, now they play at The Coach House; joined by White Lie and The Haunting. Tickets $20. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

saturday15 forecast: mostly sunny • high: 74° low: 55°

TOMORROW’S ARTISTS TODAY

11 a.m.–4 p.m. Casa Romantica presents an art exhibit featuring more than 200 pieces of various media styles by young artists from San Clemente High School and Bernice Ayer and Shorecliffs Middle Schools. Admission $5. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org.

Page 16 • Dana Point Times • May 14–20, 2010

8:30 p.m. Tributes to Red Hot Chili Peppers, Rage Against the Machine and more at OC Tavern. Tickets $7. 2369 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.542.8877, www.octavern.com.

DEREK BORDEAUX

The first three people to email us with DP Times Free Concert Tix in the subject line will receive a pair of free concert tickets from The Coach House to see Vienna Tang and Alex Wong on May 20. Vienna Teng singer/pianist and Alex Wong percussionist have only been making music together a few years, but the chemistry of two kindred spirits is unmistakable. Vienna and Alex’s first studio collaboration, Inland Territory, was released in April 2009.

In live performance, the duo veers from intimate to epic and back again, showcasing their love for an ever-widening range of genres: folk, pop, classical, jazz, country, even atonal modern music. Please include your name and phone number in the e-mail.

E-MAIL: tickets@danapointtimes.com

WIN FREE CONCERT TICKETS!

sunday16 forecast: sunny • high: 74° low: 53°

FLYING 57’S

3 p.m.–7 p.m. The band plays every Sunday at Coconuts.

34235 Doheny Park Road, Capo Beach, 949.248.2448.

MARINE WILDLIFE CRUISE

1 p.m.–3:30 p.m. View whales, dolphins, sunfish, sea lions and other sea creatures with Ocean Institute marine biologists onboard the Sea Explorer. Tickets $35 adults, $22 for children ages 4-12 (members discounted). 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr., Dana Point, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org.

MILITARY APPRECIATION WEEK

9 p.m.-12 a.m. Funk, R&B and blues at Salt Creek Grille.

32802 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.661.7799, www.saltcreekgrille.com.

Last day of Selma’s Pizza appreciation week where military personnel receive a complimentary personal pizza (with valid Military ID). 218 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.276.2828, www.selmaschicagopizzeria.com.

BACK TO THE EIGHTIES

DANMAN’S KIDS CONCERT

9 p.m.–2 a.m. New weekly event featuring the best of ’80s new wave, pop, goth, rock and punk music at Blue Danube every Saturday night. Features drink specials and live DJs. 111 Avenida Palizada, San Clemente, 949.218.5186.

LIVE MUSIC CRUISE

7 p.m.–8 p.m. Dana Wharf’s live band music cruise kicks off aboard the 95-foot Dana Pride featuring indoor/outdoor seating and full bar. Tickets $10. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com.

ERIC SARDINAS

8 p.m. The artist brings his “Delta Dynamite” to The Coach House; joined by James Grant Mythology and Dennis Jones.

Tickets $15. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

MIKE HAMILTON

6:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m. Variety music at Savannah Chop House.

32441 Golden Lantern, Laguna Niguel, 949.493.7107, www.mikehamiltonmusic.com.

6 p.m.–9 p.m. Special concert at Renaissance. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.renaissance-danapoint.com.

SUNDAY BLOODY SUNDAY BRUNCH

10 a.m. Enjoy discounts on Bloody Marys & mimosas at Irons in the Fire. 150 E. Avenida Magdalena, San Clemente, 949.542.3900, www.beachfire.com/irons.

DON’T STOP BELIEVIN’

12 p.m.–2 p.m.Tribute to Journey at the OC Fairgrounds. Free when you bring canned food donations. 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, 949.723.6660, www.ocmarketplace.com.

TARYN DONATH

7 p.m.–11 p.m. Live music at The Cellar. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com.

SIERRA SAGE WALK

9 a.m. Join the Donna O’Neill Land Conservancy for the walk. Call for info and directions, 949.489.9778, www.theconservancy.org.

(Cont. on page 19) www.danapointtimes.com

GETTING OUT

DP Times Restaurant Spotlight

By Jonathan Volzke

Rick’s Café at Regency Theaters

RATE IT!

26762 Verdugo Street, San Juan Capistrano, 949.661.3456 www.regencymovies.com

Have you eaten at this restaurant?

BEST KNOWN FOR: Wide variety of upscale food offerings MOST POPULAR ITEM: Kobe beef burger, $13

Go to www.danapointtimes.com

Capistrano’s newest eatery has a lot to offer: A beautiful wood bar and matching dining tables over marble floors. A fireplace and two big-screen televisions. A second granite countertop, outdoors, with sweeping views of downtown San Juan Capistrano. Unquestionably, it’s enough to make you forget you’re in a movie theater. But that was Regency Theater President Lyndon Golin’s plan: To make those entering the second-floor of Rick’s Café feel like they were stepping into a scene from his favorite movie, “Casablanca.” There’s even a mural of Bogart—from the movie—in front of Rick’s, over the stairway. Rick’s serves beer and wine, as well as a selection of burgers—we had ostrich ($15)—salads and, another favorite, a three-cheese grilled cheese sandwich. The menu includes a wild mushroom and onion pizza ($13) and crispy batter halibut ($13). The food is available from waiters in the upstairs VIP theater, but you can also enjoy Rick’s without buying a movie ticket.

PRICE RANGE: $6–$15 RESERVATIONS: None Mural near the stairs to Rick’s Café. Courtesy photo

and rate your overall experience.

We’ll post the results in next week’s issue of the DP Times.

Last week online voters gave

PAYMENT: Cash or credit cards HOURS: Varies, open with first showing of movie, typically 11 a.m., and until end of last showing.

Maki Yaki

¾ 34119 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point, 949.234.1235 (Rated on a scale of 1–5 stars)

ABOUT OUR REVIEWS: In each issue we’ll highlight universally critical points including “Most Popular Dish,” “Best Known For” and “Price Range.” But most importantly, we’re inviting you to participate each week and rate the restaurant based on your experiences. Go to www.danapointtimes.com and under “Restaurant Guide” rate it from 1 to 5.

(Cont. from page 16)

COASTAL SIGHTSEEING TOUR

9 a.m. Dana Wharf takes you out to sea to observe the coastline of Laguna Beach and its history. Tour includes continental breakfast and drinks, a search for sealife and more. Tickets $49. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com.

GARY SINISE & THE LT. DAN BAND

7 p.m. The musician/actor performs with his band at The Coach House. Tickets $29.50. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

KIDS FISHING CLINIC

12 p.m. Kids can practice fishing off the dock with Dana Wharf every Sunday. Free. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com.

REGGAE SUNDAYS

7 p.m.-10 p.m. Reggae at Mozambique. $5 cover. 1740 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.7777, www.mozambiqueoc.com.

monday17 forecast: partly cloudy • high: 70° low: 52°

MOMMY MOVIE MONDAY

10 a.m. Screening of “Letters to Juliette” for parents of infants at the Krikorian, tickets $7.50. 641 Camino de los Mares, San Clemente, 949.661.7469, www.kptmovies.com.

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF ORANGE COUNTY GOLF TOURNAMENT

11 a.m. Fundraising golf tournament at Santa Ana Country Club. $3,000 for a foursome or $750 per person. Lunch, snacks, oncourse games, prizes and a silent auction. 714.544.7773, www.bigbrooc.org.

MONDAY MADNESS WINE TASTING

5 p.m.–8 p.m. Join SC Wine Company for Happy Hour featuring three wines for $5! Your choice off of our daily menu! Also, $8 cheese plates normally $10! 212 1/2 Avenida Del Mar; 949.429.7067,www.scwinecompany.com.

SMOKEY KARAOKE

8 p.m. Sing fearlessly behind a cloud of smoke at BeachFire and enjoy Mojito Monday. No cover. 204 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.366.3232, www.beachfire.com.

MONDAYS WITH MATT

tuesday18 forecast: a.m. clouds/p.m. sun • high: 69° low: 52°

POOL & KARAOKE

3 p.m.–close. Play pool for free at Knuckle Heads. Karaoke starts at 9 p.m. 1717 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.492.2410.

CURIOSITY CARTS

10 a.m.–1 p.m. Discover history-related artifacts at Mission San Juan Capistrano. Free with paid admission, $5-$9. 26801 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.

HALF-PRICED OCEAN TRIPS EXTENDED

10 a.m. Dana Wharf offers discounts on whale watching, fishing, etc, every Tuesday and Wednesdays for a select time. $14.50$19.50 each. Reservations recommended. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com.

KELLY RAE BAND

7:30 p.m. Live music and line dancing with the Kelly Boyz at OC Tavern. Tickets $5 before 9 p.m. 2369 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.542.8877, www.octavern.com.

TRIVIA TUESDAY

6:30 p.m. Trivia games and prizes at Irons in the Fire.

150 E. Avenida Magdalena, San Clemente, 949.542.3900, www.beachfire.com/irons.

WILL FAX

7:30 p.m.–10:30 p.m. Live at Renaissance. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.renaissance-danapoint.com.

BENNY

wednesday19 forecast: sunny • high: 72° low: 51°

BRANHAM ESTATE WINERY WINE TASTING 6 p.m.–8 p.m. San Clemente Wine Company welcomes Gary Branham of Napa’s Branham Estate Winery for the first time.

Tasting fee is $20 for four wines. 212 1/2 Avenida Del Mar, 949.429.7067, www.scwinecompany.com.

DAN LEFLER

COMEDY & KARAOKE

WELL WELL WEDNESDAY

www.danapointtimes.com

7 p.m.–11 p.m. Live entertainment at The Cellar. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com

POOL TOURNAMENT

7:30 p.m. In-house pool tournament every Wednesday at Knuckle Heads Sports Bar. $5 entry fee. 1717 N. El Camino Real, 949.492.2410.

ANDREW CORRADINI

6 p.m.–9 p.m. Acoustic pop music and martinis at Salt Creek Grille. 32802 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.661.7799, www.saltcreekgrille.com.

thursday20 forecast: sunny • high: 71° low: 52°

DANA POINT COASTAL ARTS CONCERT SERIES

7:30 p.m. Virtuoso violinist Mira Khomik performs a variety of solo violin works at St. Edward’s Church. Tickets $12 adults, $8 students, seniors and military. 33926 Calle La Primavera, Dana Point, www.dpcoastalarts.org.

BRANDI SMITH & JASON FOSTER

6 p.m.-9 p.m. Acoustic pop music and martinis at Salt Creek Grille. 32802 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.661.7799, www.saltcreekgrille.com.

DEBLOIS MILLEDGE BAND

7:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m. Mixed rock at Renaissance.

24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.renaissance-danapoint.com.

7 p.m.–11 p.m. Flamenco guitar at The Cellar. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com.

8 p.m. Matt makes Monday the new Friday all night at OC Tavern.

2369 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.542.8877, www.octavern.com.

9 p.m.–1 a.m. The night starts with live comedy and continues with karaoke at 11 p.m. at Hennessey’s Tavern. 34111 La Plaza, Dana Point, 949.488.0121, www.hennesseystavern.com.

THE THIRD WHEEL

7:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m. Live at Renaissance. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.renaissance-danapoint.com.

3 p.m.–close. Happy hour all night and music by The Tripp Sicks Duo playing Americana, Reggae, Hip Hop and Funk. 204 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.366.3232, www.beachfire.com.

UPCOMING: SATURDAY, MAY 22

DOHENY BLUES FESTIVAL

11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Two-day concert of blues, rock and soul music at Doheny Beach, along with food, vendors, kids activities and more. 949.360.7800, www.omegaevents.com/dohenyblues.

UPCOMING: SATURDAY, MAY 29

POLYNESIAN FESTIVAL AND LUAU

10 a.m.-10 p.m. Celebrate the culture and spirit of Hawaii at the San Clemente Community Center sponsored by The Hawaiian Surf Club Of San Onofre. Festival is free. Tickets for Luau Feast are $25 adults, $10 kids. 100 N. Calle Seville, San Clemente, 714.369.0475, www.hawaiiansurfclub.com.

For our full calendar, visit the “Event Calendar” at www.danapointtimes.com.

Have an event?

Send your listing to events@danapointtimes.com May 14–20, 2010 • Dana Point Times • Page 19

DP LIVING

4

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

SUDOKU

by Myles Mellor and Susan Flanagan Each Sudoku puzzle consists of a 9X9 grid that has been subdivided into nine smaller grids of 3X3 squares. To

DP

D a n a Po i nt

solve the puzzle, each row, column and box must contain each of the numbers 1 to 9. Puzzles come in three grades: easy, medium and difficult. Level: Medium Last week’s solution:

SOLUTION SOLUTION SOLUTION SOLUTION See today’s solution in next week’s issue.

Testing the Waters Officials launch key phase in South County desalination plant

By Jonathan Volzke Dana Point Times

O

fficials this week unveiled the latest step in a multi-organization effort to tap into the “world’s largest reservoir,” the Pacific Ocean, for drinking water that would serve residents in Dana Point, San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano, Laguna Beach and Laguna Niguel.

The newest phase of the $160-million project is in a trailer at Doheny State Beach, but the simple structure hides a complex set of equipment that will suck water from beneath the sea floor, pump it through membranes and filters and make it ready for consumers to drink.

Water officials are launching an 18-month test phase that is critical to the future of the project. The equipment will test well production and water quality, as well as the reverseosmosis water-treatment process.

“This phase gives us the information to design the full plant correctly,” said Dick Dietmier, the director of South Coast Water District, which supplies Dana Point’s water.

“That’s the critical part of building the desal plant, to get the design right the first time.”

Ultimately, the system could supply up to 30 percent of South Coast’s water needs.

Dana Point residents use 120 gallons per day per person. The vast majority of Dana Point’s water—80 percent—is imported from elsewhere, although the South Coast Water District does get 10 percent from local groundwater in the underground San Juan Basin and another 10 percent comes from locally recycled water for irrigation.

But the amount of money the district and cities are charged to bring in outside water has steadily climbed over the years, and the politics of water statewide has seen reductions in the amount available.

Given drought and the instability of California water politics, South Coast Water District officials say the desalination plant is critical to future water supplies.

Like an octopus’ tentacles, the South Orange Coastal Ocean Desalination Project will ultimately rely on nine wells drilled at a slant beneath the ocean floor. The water will be sucked through the ocean floor.

Officials say the design makes it one of the most watched ocean water desalination projects in the state, largely because the slant wells are touted as environmentally friendly.

Page 20 • Dana Point Times • May 14–20, 2010

Gerry Filteau, president of Separation Processes Inc., shows off his company’s equipment in the desalination test station at Doheny State Beach. Photo by Jonathan Volzke

The main benefit of this type of system is: • It does not harm marine organisms either through entrapment or entrainment; so the project’s new test phase is supported by the environmental community.

• The quality of water is very good because of the natural filtration that occurs as the water is drawn through the sand and gravel under the beach and below the ocean floor.

• The slant-well intake system saves money because the high quality water does not require pre-treatment before undergoing the reverse-osmosis membrane desalination process.

A private firm is building a desalination plant in Carlsbad. Surfrider appealed the permits for that project which does not use slant wells, but the move was denied.

Officials there say that project will produce 50 million gallons of water a day for 300,000 residents in several North San Diego County cities. That plant is scheduled to be operational in 2012.

Locally, a 2007 project-feasibility study

indicated that it would be possible to construct a 15-million-gallon-a-day ocean desalination plant at South Coast Water District property south of Stonehill. The plant could begin operating in 2016, officials said.

But the project is expensive to build and operate. While the agencies involved— South Coast Water District is the lead agency and the Municipal Water District of Orange County is playing a large support role—have obtained a $3.9 million grant, more state and federal money is being sought.

Each agency involved so far has chipped in $280,000 through fiscal year 2010, with an estimated total of $706,000 needed from each. The contract, however, gives each agency mileposts at which they can opt out of the project, and even sell their shares to another agency.

Project supporters say while the initial costs of producing the desalinated water are high, the plant will allow local officials to control the cost and supply.

Once the entire facility is up and running,

the agencies will pay an estimated $1,100— with a subsidy from the Metropolitan Water District— to produce an acre-foot of water, compared to buying imported water, now sold at $700 an acre foot. Generally, two average suburban family uses about an acre foot of water a year, although conservation efforts can reduce that by 75 percent.

The pilot project unveiled Wednesday will allow engineers to get a better idea of the actual water quality, and what level of treatment will be necessary to make the water drinkable, San Clemente City Assistant Engineer David Rebensdorf said.

It will also help engineers determine how removing water from the Pacific will affect an underground basin that runs roughly along San Juan Creek. The city of San Juan Capistrano has a $35-million groundwater plant that can produce up to half of that city’s drinking water needs. While Capistrano is a partner in the desal plant, officials there have raised concerns that pulling the water from the Pacific will reduce the effectiveness of a water barrier that keeps the ocean salt water from mixing with the underground basin.

Capistrano officials are concerned any change in that natural barrier could cause the water level in the San Juan Basin to drop and decrease the effectiveness of the Capistrano’s groundwater plant.

“There’s a question of whether this is this going to cause an overdraft on the San Juan Basin, which would be a concern to us,” San Juan Capistrano Councilman Tom Hribar, who represents his city on the desalination project committee. “But this is a very sophisticated program with lots of testing and lots of evaluation.”

Another issue still ahead to explore: The impact of MtBE pools throughout the area on the water quality. The spills are near the Union station on Del Obispo, the Arco station and the former gas station—now a truck and equipment rental—on Doheny Park Road.

Dietmier said water officials will solve any issue that comes up. They have to. South Coast’s ultimate plan calls for just 35 percent of all the water used to be imported, with 30 percent coming from desalination, 20 percent from groundwater and 15 percent recycled.

The desal plant has to play its part.

“If it doesn’t work the first time, we will find another way,” he said. “Ninety-seven percent of all of the available water in the world is in the ocean.” DP www.danapointtimes.com

Locals Only

Business Directory The only directory featuring Dana Point businesses exclusively A L S O

O N L I N E

AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING DC Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning www.dcplumbing.net 949.365.9044 Oasis Air Conditioning & Heating 949.420.1321 www.oasisair.com

ARCHITECTURE - PLANNING Jim Ettinger Design 949.246.0224 33742 Big Sur St., jimettingerdesign@cox.net Nona Associates - Raymond J. Nona A.I.A. 26901 Camino de Estrella, 949.496.2275 www.raynona.com

ATTORNEY James D. Hornbuckle, Esq. 949.499.7370 34204 Pacific Coast Hwy, www.dixonlawcorp.com

BATHROOM REMODELING

A T

BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT

WHAT IS EMAIL MARKETING? Email marketing is one of the most effective and affordable ways to advertise and promote your business. Email marketing helps build customer relationships, generates new business, provides referrals and keeps you in touch with your current customers. Concept2Design Marketing, www.concept2design.net.

Let’s Get Started! 949.276.6921

DOG GROOMING

RCL Construction Company, Inc. 949.661.1451 Dawgy Style 34085 Pacific Coast Hwy, Ste. 112, CA License # 687186, www.rclconstruction.com www.todawgystyle.com

BEAUTY SALONS

W W W . D A N A P O I N T T I M E S . C O M

ELECTRICAL

EMBROIDERY

Accurate Bookeeping 949.412.5345 ABC Signs & Embroidery Shop 34135 Pacific Coast Hwy, Ste. E, lisathebookkeeper@yahoo.com www.abcembroideryshop.com

CAFE - DELI

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

CATERING

949.248.1007

FITNESS PROGRAMS Fit Club - Boot Camp 949.831.7984 www.afitclub.com Jazzercise, O.C. Sailing & Events Center 34451 Ensenada Place, 949.492.7817 www.danapointjazz.com

Smokey’s House of BBQ 949.388.8102 32860 Pacific Coast Hwy. #4, www.SmokeysHouseofBBQ.com GIFT BASKETS Steer Crazy International BBQ & GRILL Under-Wraps Gift Baskets 949.291.0300 34700 Pacific Coast Hwy., #105 949.481.6999 mariannedorsey@cox.net, www.steercrazyBBQ.com www.giftbasketsbyunderwraps.com

CLUTTER CONSULTANT Organize/Simplify - Terri Hochman hochmans@cox.net

949.521.1632

COFFEE SHOP

HANDYMAN SERVICES Robert’s Professional Handyman Services Lic. # B853695

949.606.6425

HAIR SALONS

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

Paragon Salon 949.489.1955 34161 Pacific Coast Hwy. Utopia Salon 949.661.1664 COMPUTER REPAIR & SERVICES Barry 949.661.1664 949.231.9755 Solution Tek-nologies 949.400.0080 Gary 949.433.3960 24821 Stanhope Unit H, www.solutiontek-nologies.com Morgan 24582 Del Prado, #B, www.barrysutopia.com

CONTRACTORs - GENERAL

Creative Environments Construction 949.496.3728 Design & Build #464468

Contractors - Painting LH Painting, CA LIC. # 647760 949.240.8795 33391 Sea Bright Dr., www.lhpainting.com

COSMETICS

RESTAURANTS

Agostino’s By The Sea 949.661.8266 34700 Coast Hwy., Ste 100, www.agostinosbythesea.com

Jeweler Brio Tuscany Grille 949.443.1476 Dana Point Jeweler 949.489.1165 24050 Camino Del Avion, www.briorestaurant.com Gemmell’s French Restaurant 949.234.0063 24845 Del Prado, www.danapointjeweler.com 34471 Golden Lantern, www.gemmellsrestaurant.com KITCHEN REMODELING Jolly Roger Restaurant 949.496.0855 RCL Construction Company, Inc. 949.661.1451 34661 Golden Lantern, www.aloharestaurants.com License # 687186, www.rclconstruction.com Smokey’s House of BBQ 949.388.8102 32860 Pacific Coast Hwy. #4, LANDSCAPING/SPRINKLERS www.SmokeysHouseofBBQ.com Sunburst Landscaping 949.632.0081 Steer Crazy International BBQ & GRILL www.sunlandscape.webs.com 949.493.3670 34700 Pacific Coast Hwy., #105 949.481.6999 www.steercrazyBBQ.com

MUSIC INSTRUCTION

949.496.3315

Azalea Salon & Boutique 949.248.3406 delta G electrical

949.360.9282 24452 Del Prado Ave. Ste. A, CA #657214, www.deltagelect.com www.azaleasalonandboutique.com Paragon Salon 949.489.1955 EMAIL MARKETING 34161 Pacific Coast Hwy. 949.276.6921 949.248.8595 Concept2Design Marketing Salon Revelation - Dayna Dallas www.concept2design.net 34192 Violet Lantern #2

Bookkeeping

INTERIOR DESIGN Norma Mardian Interior Design 949.492.6271 www.nminteriordesign.com

HOME INSPECTION RESIDENTIAL/COMMERICIAL

GHA Inspection Services & Mold Testing/ Remediation

949.331.8899 Dana Point, www.ghainspections.com

ICE CREAM Coffee Importers Scoop Deck 949.493.7773 34531 Golden Lantern, www.coffeeimporters.com

Mary Kay Cosmetics & Career 949.248.2868 Insurance Services Opportunities, Ind. Sales Director - Marline Adams, www.marykay.com/madams2 Statefarm/Elaine LaVine 949.240.8944 34080 Golden Lantern, www.elainelavine.net DENTISTS Ted Bowersox

949.661.3200 Dr. Hannah Lewis, DDS 949.496.5713 34085 Pacific Coast Hwy, Ste 204, 24655 Unit E La Plaza, www.danapointsmiles.com www.statefarm.com

ROOFING

Kenny’s Music & Guitars 949.661.3984 Capistrano Roofing, Inc. 949.246.7740 24731 La Plaza, www.kennysmusicstore.com Lic# 936828, www.caporoofing.com Danman’s Music School 949.242.4431 24699 Del Prado,www.danmans.com SIGNS

Party Hosting The Party Girl www.ocpartygirl.com

949.212.1277

LH Painting, CA LIC. # 647760 949.240.8795 33391 Sea Bright Dr., www.lhpainting.com

PET GROOMING 949.496.3315

Girl in the Curl Surf Shop 949.661.4475 34116 Pacific Coast Hwy., www.girlinthecurl.com Infinity Surfboards 949.661.6699 24382 Del Prado, www.infinitysurf.com Jack’s Surfboards

949.276.8080 34320 Pacific Coast Hwy, www.jackssurfboards.com

TUTORING Mathnasium 949.388.6555 32411 Golden Lantern, Ste. Q, www.mathnasium.com

PIZZA Beach Cities Pizza

34473 Golden Lantern St. 34155 Pacific Coast Hwy.

949.248.1007

Surf Shops

Painting

Dawgy Style 34085 Pacific Coast Hwy #112, www.todawgystyle.com

ABC Signs & Embroidery Shop 34135 Pacific Coast Hwy, Ste. E, www.abcembroideryshop.com

949.496.0606 949.496.2670

Plumbing

Upholstery Dana Point Upholstery 949.240.2292 24402 Del Prado Jeddy’s Yacht & Home Interiors 949.240.9569 34118 Pacific Coast Hwy, www.jeddys.com

A to Z Leak Detection 949.499.4464 Window Coverings www.atozleakdetection.com Chick’s Plumbing

949.496.9731 Jeddy’s Yacht & Home Interiors 949.240.9569 34172 Doheny Park Road, www.chicksplumbing.com 34118 Pacific Coast Hwy, www.jeddys.com DC Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning www.dcplumbing.net 949.365.9044 WINDOW CLEANING King’s Plumbing 949.661.2709, 949.230.5464 Wonderful Windows 949.369.7263 www.wonderfulwindows.com

PRINT SHOP

Beacon Printing - Brad & Judy Brandmeier 24681 La Plaza, Ste. 125 949.661.3877 beaconprinting@sbcglobal.net Printing OC

949.388.4888 27134 Paseo Espada #B 203, www.printingoc.com

PSYCHOTHERAPY Corinne Rupert PhD, PsyD, MFT 949.488.2648 33971 Selva Rd. Ste. 125, www.danapointpsychotherapy.com Michael Hoffman, MFT 949.212.4149 www.michaelhoffmanmft.com

REAL ESTATE - RESIDENTIAL Altera Real Estate, Shirley Tenger 949.487.7700 33522 Niguel Road, www.tengerteam.com JHill & Associates 949.488.7653 25471 Evans Pointe, www.hillrealty.org Jill McGovern Real Estate 949.481.5259 34231 Doheny Park Rd., www.jillmcgovern.com Lantern Bay Realty 949.661.6441 34179 Golden Lantern, Ste. 103, www.lanternbayrealty.com

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BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Classifieds

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HELP WANTED DO YOU WANT A JOB YOU WILL LOVE? We are currently accepting resumes for the position of Full time / Part time COOK. We are looking for someone with previous cooking experience for our daily food production. You will have a key role in providing three beautiful and nutritious meals a day to our wonderful residents, served in restaurant style dining atmosphere. We believe in taking care of our employees. If you work for us, you will receive a competitive salary, excellent benefits and an enjoyable work/life balance. For additional company information please visit our website at www.aegisliving.com. If you are interested in becoming a Cook for Áegis Living, we encourage you to fill out an application, and/or submit your resume to Imee Fontecha in person at 26922 Camino de Estrella, Dana Point, CA 92624 or via fax to 949-488-2669. We look forward to hearing from you!

HOME FURNISHING BEAUTIFUL CORNER DESK White corner desk with hutch, keyboard tray, file drawer, and two door storage. $100 obo (949) 496-3945

GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! E-mail your garage sale to classifieds@danapointtimes.com DEADLINE 5PM MONDAY. No phone calls please.

HOME IMPROVEMENT CUSTOM CARPENTRY, MANTELS, CABINETRY, doors, mouldings. John Jenkins. 949-310-9605

PHYSICAL FITNESS A SACRED SPACE: YOGA & MEDITATION A Sacred Space is a place where people can re-connect. Online schedule at scartsupply.com/asacredspace/schedule

HOW TO SUBMIT YOUR CLASSIFIED

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May 14–20, 2010 • Dana Point Times • Page 23

SPORTS

5

& OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES & MORE

DP

5 BEST BETS TRACK AND FIELD

SOCCER

Dolphins at CIF Prelims, Trabuco Hills High School May 15, TBA

Toronto FC vs.

LA Galaxy, Home Depot Center May 15, 7:30 p.m.

The best of the best collide on the track as Dana Hills sends off several of its best to compete in the CIF Prelims.

Fresh off destroying the Seattle Sounders FC, the undefeated LA Galaxy return home ready to keep their impressive win streak alive.

Info: www.sctritons.com

Info: www.lagalaxy.com

D a n a Po i nt

BASEBALL

Padres vs. Dodgers, Dodger Stadium May 19, 7:10 p.m.

The slumping Angels are set for a rivalry showdown as they host the red-hot Oakland A’s in the final game of this series.

Just one series away from the finals, the Lakers host the Phoenix Suns in the first game of the Western Conference Finals.

The Dodgers have hit their springtime stride as they get ready to host the San Diego Padres for a three-game series.

Info: www.nba.com/lakers

Info: www.losangeles.

Info: www.losangeles.

By David Zimmerle

BOYS AND GIRLS SWIMMING • In the CIF-SS Division I Prelims May 12, the Top 16 advance to Friday’s finals. For the varsity boys, Dana Hills took sixth in the 200 medley relay, and David Gonzalez (47.67) took 13th in the 100 free. Next 7 days: May 14 at CIF Finals at Belmont Plaza, TBA BOYS AND GIRLS TRACK AND FIELD • The Dolphins finished the South Coast League Finals with several of its athletes moving on to the CIF Prelims set for May 15, as the top three placing finishers in each event along with several at large qualifiers advance. For the varsity boys, Ricardo Campuzano, Connor Kaddatz and Blake Ahrold took the first three spots in the 1600, respectively, Vince Fusco finished first in the 110 hurdles, Devin Harrison Page 24 • Dana Point Times • May 14–20, 2010

dodgers.mlb.com

angels.mlb.com

SPORTS NEWS FROM DANA HILLS HIGH SCHOOL

SOFTBALL • The Lady Dolphins (5-4 SCL, 13-10) had their three-game win streak snapped with a 2-1 loss to Aliso Niguel May 6, but bounced back with a 12-4 stomping of Mission Viejo on May 10. In the loss to the Lady Wolverines, Dana Hills was down 2-0 before knocking in a single run in the top of the sixth. Overall, the girls out-hit their opponent 6-5 on the day as Kaylee Uddberg led with a sixth inning double. In the win against the Lady Diablos, the game was tied 3-3 before Dana Hills erupted for nine runs in the top of the fi fth inning en route to the smashing win.

Kat Schmitt-Daskalos took the win from the mound with some relief by Kara Friesz, while French and Hurst both hit doubles on the day. On May 12, the Lady Dolphins traveled to take on Tesoro in the final game of the regular season.

Next 7 days: n/a

BASEBALL

Suns vs. Lakers, Staples Center May 17, 6 p.m.

Dolphin Report

BASEBALL • The Dolphins (7-7 South Coast League, 15-11) were able get past Aliso Niguel in a 5-3 win May 3, but lost 9-3 to the Wolverines May 7 before picking up a 4-3 win against Mission Viejo May 11. In the win against Aliso Niguel, Peter Maris went 3-for-3 at the plate, while Mike Battaglia, Scott Kaplan and Nick Redding each scored one run apiece. Nick Hsieh led with two runs scored. Peter Tago got the win on the mound going all seven innings while giving up only six hits. In the loss to the Wolverines, Maris, Mark Wilson and Daniel White each had a RBI in the loss, while Eric Hsieh took the loss from the mound going 4.1 innings and giving up three earned runs on five hits. After being tied 3-3 following the fi fth inning, Dana Hills rebounded with a win against Mission Viejo as the Dolphins fought off the Diablos with a run in the bottom of the seventh inning for the victory. E. Hsieh, Trevor Scott, Brian Choi and N. Hsieh each had an RBI in the win. Tago went all seven from the mound again, picking up the win and giving up three earned runs on nine hits. The Dolphins faced Mission Viejo on the road May 13 in the final game of the regular season. Next 7 days: n/a

BASKETBALL

A’s vs. Angels, Angel Stadium May 16, 12:35 p.m.

S C O R E B OA R D SOFTBALL MICHELLE HUBER NAMED TO ALL BIG EAST THIRD TEAM Providence College softball sophomore Michelle Huber from Dana Point was one of three players from her university named to the All Big East Third Team on Wednesday, May 12 at the Big East Banquet in Louisville, Ky. It marks the first time she’s earned all Big East accolades. Huber is a graduate of JSerra Catholic High School in San Juan Capistrano. She played in 20 conference games and finished second on the team with a .333 batting average. She led the team in runs (16), triples (1), stolen bases (8), walks (10) and slugging percentage (.544). In addition, she finished tied for first with two home runs.

SOCCER

Members of the Dana Hills varsity track and field team gather for an early-season group photo. Photo by Andrea Swayne

took first in the 400, Jesus Molina and Cole Guerin took the first two spots in the 800, respectively, Fusco finished first in the 300, Harrison took first in the 200, Ahrold, Campuzano and Kaddatz took the first three spots in the 3200, respectively, Dana Hills took first in the 4x400 relay, Fusco and Nick Ahrold took the first two spots in the high jump, respectively, Harrison finished first in the long jump, while Blake Cotcamp finished third, Conner Ito took second in the pole vault while Stephen Morris finished third, and Cody Meddaugh finished first in the shot put.

For the varsity girls, Sheridan Gomez took third in the 1600, Kimmie Conner took first in the 100 hurdles, Carissa Bricker finished third in the 400, Katherine Gullickson took first in the 800, Conner and Megan Jones took the first two spots in the 300 hurdles, respectively, Alaina Alvarez and Laura Beresford took the first two spots in the 3200, respectively, Kelly McCormick took first in the pole vault, Conner and Sklyar Johnson both took the first two spots in the high jump, respectively, Conner took third in the long jump, and Katie Dibene took second in the triple jump. Next 7 days: May 15 at CIF SS Prelims at Cerritos College, TBA BOYS GOLF • The Dolphins made it out of the regular season tied for ninth place in the county with Mission Viejo and a solid finish at the South Coast League finals May 3-4. Next 7 days: May 17 at CIF Individual Regionals at Skylinks in Long Beach, 7 a.m.

BOYS TENNIS • On May 12, at the CIF Southern Section Division I first-round playoffs Newport Harbor beat

SADDLEBACK UNITED SOCCER CLUB EXPANDS Saddleback United Soccer Club will continue to expand the boys program and seeks U10 players (age 9 before August 1,2010) for the 2010 season. Those parents and players who share our philosophy and approach to club soccer are welcome to come and train with our coaching staff.

The club was established in 2006 by Joy Fawcett to create a unique soccer environment that combines excellent soccer training and a commitment to positive coaching. The club philosophy states that in order to enable players to reach their full potential in soccer, the program must help them develop a solid foundation that comes from personal character, relationships, excellent soccer fundamentals, understanding of the mental aspects of the game and most importantly a true love for the game of soccer.

Training sessions are on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Viejo Elementary School, 26782 Via Grande, Mission Viejo. For more information, contact Coach Jaime Arroyo at 949.291.2678 or email at arroyofamily@hotmail.com. Please also visit the website at www. saddlebackunited.org.

Dana Hills 10-8. The Sailors pulled off the upset by taking five singles and five doubles sets to upend the Dolphins.

Next 7 days: n/a BOYS VOLLEYBALL • With a 3-2 win against Tesoro on May 6, the Dolphins (7-3 SCL, 16-7) claimed the South Coast League title ending San Clemente’s eight-year run as champions. It was the first league title for Dana Hills since 1998. James Drury finished with 20 kills. On May 11, the Dolphins made it out of the first round of the CIF-SS Division I playoffs with a 3-2 win against St. John Bosco.

The Dolphins fought hard for this one winning 27-29, 25-23, 26-24, 22-25 and 15-9. Drury led again with 24 kills. Next up, Dana Hills took on Huntington Beach at home in the second round of the playoffs on May 13. Next 7 days: n/a www.danapointtimes.com

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

Coronation at Dogpatch Rainbow Sandals stand up paddle contest finds new King and Queen of Dogpatch

By Andrea Swayne Dana Point Times

T

he Rainbow Sandals King & Queen of Dogpatch stand up paddle surfing contest went off without a hitch on May 8 at San Onofre State Beach at the break known by surfers as Dogpatch.

Participants in this second annual event were invited to compete via “royal proclamation” by last year’s King John Clark (Last year’s Queen was his wife Manya). King Clark’s invitation set the stage—and summed up the spirit of the contest—for this fun and entertaining day created in the interest of celebrating the growing sport of stand up paddle surfing and with the intention to benefit the efforts of the San Onofre Foundation to provide education, protection and preservation for the California State Parks at San Onofre and San Clemente State Beaches.

The invitation read: “People of the Land, the King and Queen of Dogpatch will take place Saturday, May 8th at San Onofre State Beach. This Stand up paddle event will directly benefit the San Onofre Foundation. This event is open to all SUPers of all levels. There will be two divisions: The Best-in-the-World and the Second Best-in-the-World. Rainbow Sandals’ main objective and advice for success in this event is to have a lot of fun. In addition to being judged on your SUPing ability, you will be scored upon how much positive energy you can convey—no whining! In celebration of Dogpatch and the fast-growing sport of stand up paddling, the King and Queen competition gives us all an opportunity to give back to the Earth through the San Onofre Foundation. A new King and Queen will be crowned. Good luck…—King Clark” Competitiors were greeted with beautiful weather, glassy clean waves and numerous sightings of wildlife. Dolphins

RESULTS King of Dogpatch: Billy Kho Queen of Dogpatch: Diane Wenzel Advanced Men 1. Tommy Lloy 2. Dave Kalama 3. Andrew McKinney 4. Byron Kurt 5. Brian Haag 6. Jason Kenworthy Advanced Wahine 1. Candice Appleby 2. Emmy Merrill 3. Elsa Harrison 4. Jamilah Star 5. Kristy Murphy 6. Claudia Struble

Intermediate Men 1. Greg Brunson 2. Chris Hamm 3. Brent Pascoe 4. Eric Lizerbram 5. Mike Skelly Intermediate Wahine 1. Kaimaleea 2. Jennifer Kurt 3. Rhonda Daum 4. Manya Clark 5. Alicua Barry 6. Nicole McGinley

caught waves alongside competitors, and sightings of a gray whale and a juvenile white shark were also reported.

“All in all, the King and Queen of Dogpatch was just a beautiful, fun-filled family day at the beach,” said Rainbow Sandals’ Pat Huber. “Everyone had a great time. It was great to have Dave Kalama at the event. He, along with Laird Hamilton, was largely responsible for popularizing stand up paddling.”

At the end of the day, Dogpatch had new royalty—King Billy Kho and Queen Diane Wenzel—to reign over the little stretch of beach and surf, until next year. DP

The new King and Queen of Dogpatch: Diane Wenzel and Billy Kho. Photo by Pat Huber

6.0 Lowers Pro, Oakley Pro Junior Wrap Up at Trestles An impressive field of competitors wows fans at Lowers

By Andrea Swayne Dana Point Times

A

fter four days of competition, May 4 to 8, at the worldclass cobblestone break of Lower Trestles, it was St. Augustine, Florida’s Gabe Kling who took home the win over Australia’s Chris Davidson. The ASP Prime 6.0 Lowers Pro saw an impressive lineup of some of the world’s best professional surfers pushing the envelope and putting on a show of epic proportions on the notoriously rippable waves at Lowers.

Crowd favorite Andy Irons (HI) nearly missed the finals when he was taken out by Kling in the semis 12.86 to 12. 64.

Davidson battled his way into the final round by defeating Adriano de Souza (BRA) 14.93 to 14.53 in his semifinal heat.

The early rounds of the Oakley Pro Jr. were upsetting for local surfers when Capo Beach surfer Luke Davis was eliminated in the Round of 32 and San Clemente’s RESULTS Kolohe Andino was knocked out in the 6.0 Lowers Pro Final Results quarterfinals thanks to 1- Gabe Kling (USA) 16.50 an interference. (Andino 2- Chris Davidson (AUS) 11.77 had another chance to shine in the 6.0 and alOakley Pro Junior Final Results though he went down in 1- Andrew Doheny (USA) 17.10 the early rounds in that 2- Nat Young (USA) 15.40 event, he did display 3- Dylan Goodale (HAW) 14.17 surfing worthy of the 4- Tyler Newton (HAW) 13.60 Prime level.)

The Pro Jr. final field was stacked with impressive talent—Nat Young (Santa Cruz), Dylan Goodale (HI), Tyler Newton (HI) and Andrew Doheny (Newport Beach).

The final was an exciting see-saw battle amongst all four.

The heat had spectators on the edge of their seats as Doheny posted an 8.5 and Goodale quckly responded with a 6.77 that brought him into first. Nat Young of Santa Cruz, needing something in the low 5’s, fought back with an impressive display of his on-rail mastery and was awarded a 7.57 bringPage 26 • Dana Point Times • May 14–20, 2010

6.0 Lowers Pro winner Gabe Kling goes vert off the top. Photo by Andrea Swayne

ing him into first with just over five minutes remaining. In the end, it was Doheny that came out on top, winning with a two-wave total of 17.10 out of 20.

Doheny was gracious and appreciative in his interview.

“I just want to keep having fun, trying to improve and just keep doing this. This is an awesome sport and the whole thing is rad. It’s really cool,” said Doheny. Award ceremony announcer Dave Stanfield mentioned that established WCT, Prime and WQS are very inspired by young surfers and are

always watching because the young surfers are the next generation and asked Doheny if he, in turn, is inspired by some of the older surfers. “I am really impressed. It’s cool to see Andy Irons ripping, he’s one of my favorite surfers. John John (Florence) and Kolohe “Brother” Andino were also surfing really well,” said Doheny.

For additional information, photos and video highlights of the events, log on to www.nike6lowerspro.com and www. oakleyprojunior.com. DP www.danapointtimes.com