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D E C E M B E R 24 – 3 0 , 2 0 1 0

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VOLUME 3, ISSUE 52

A Red Tail’s Tale WWII Tuskegee Airman Mitch Higginbotham recalls his days serving on the nation’s first all-black aerial combat unit E Y E O N D P/ PAG E 5

E Y E O N D P/ PAG E 6

WWII Tuskegee Airman Mitch Higginbotham reminisces at his Dana Point home about his days spent as a “Red Tail.” Photo by Christina Scannapiego

www.danapointtimes.com

Brio Tuscany Grille

The Melting Pot

Bring in the New Year in style with the finest in food, dancing and live entertainment.

Dress to impress!! Regular menu from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. and the gala party starts at 8:30 p.m.

Reservations is a must. Call 949.443.1476.

Dinner, Entertainment and Dancing. Join us for a four-course dinner, champagne toast and tableside entertainment for only $49.50 per person. Teen and child pricing available. Head over to our bar for live music and dancing from 10 p.m.-1 a.m.

24050 Camino Del Avion # B, Dana Point, 949.443.1476, www.briorestaurant.com

647 Camino de los Mares, San Clemente, 949.661.1966, www.meltingpot.com/sanclemente

The Next Door NYE IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD Hey neighbor! Join us for a three-course dinner, champagne toast and live music and tableside entertainment for only $35 per person. Live music & dancing from 10 p.m.-1 a.m.

647 Camino de los Mares #126, San Clemente, 949.940.8845, www.nextdoorsc.com

Sundried Tomato Sundried Tomato - an American Bistro will be offering a three-course $50 menu as well as an ala carte menu. Entree choices include rack of lamb, grilled stuffed jumbo shrimp and filet mignon just to mention a few. Dancing and DJ from 10 p.m.-close. Champagne toast at midnight.

821 Via Suerte, San Clemente. Located in Talega.

Call for reservations 949.388.5757. www.sundriedtomatocafe.com

Café Mimosa Come celebrate at Café Mimosa on New Year’s Eve! A special menu which includes a fourcourse meal, and champagne for $65 per person (tax and gratuity not included). 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Call today 949.481.6780.

245 Ave. Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.481.6780, www.cafemimosasc.com

The Coach House Concert Hall Rock’n New Year’s Eve at The Coach House featuring The Tubes. The Tubes are a San Francisco-based rock band, with hits such as “White Punks on Dope, “Don’t Want to Wait Anymore”, and a number 10 (USA) hit “She’s a Beauty.” Doors open at 6 p.m. and concert starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are $35.

33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com

The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar Ring in the New Year at Fisherman’s New Year’s Eve Party December 31, 2010! D.J. and dancing from 9 p.m. - 1 a.m. in the bar! Also featuring a five course meal in our dining room.

Reserve your 9 p.m. dinner seating which includes party favors and complimentary champagne toast at midnight! $69.95 per person. $50.00 deposit required. See manager for details. Limited reservations between 4 p.m.-8 p.m.

611 Avenida Victoria, San Clemente, 949.498.6390, www.thefishermansrestaurant.com

Stella’s Serious Italian Celebrate New Year’s at Stella’s. Chef Marco has created a tantalizing four-course menu, choose from five delicious entrees. Entertaining will be Sax Appeal, featuring Gary King, OC’s finest sax player. We will be serving our bar menu all evening in the lounge.

Doors open at 4:30 p.m., three-course dinner from $55. Seating from 6 p.m., four-course dinner $75-$85. More info and menu on our website at www.stellasitalian.com.

17 Monarch Bay Plaza, Monarch Beach, 949.234.1679

Carbonara’s Trattoria Join the Carbonara Family and end the New Year right! Great food with great people! Order your favorite off the menu or enjoy one of our New Year’s specials like Cioppino with fresh lobster. Please call for reservations 949.366.1040. Happy Holidays from The Carbonara Family.

111 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.366.1040, www.carbonara.com

Sarducci’s Capistrano Depot Ring in the New Year early at Sarducci’s! Besides our regular menu, we will be serving two specials; Filet and Crab Stuffed Shrimp for $36.95 and Stuffed Jumbo Tiger Shrimp for $22.95. Come eat before you party! Dinner hours from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. New Year’s Eve. 26701 Verdugo Street, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.9593, www.capistranodepot.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 Friday, December 24

Tuesday, December 28

Friday, December 31

City Hall Offices Closed through January 2, 2011 City Hall offices located at 33282, Golden Lantern will be closed for the holidays. Regular operations will resume on January 3, 2011. For more information, log on to the city website at www.danapoint.org.

Ocean Water Quality Subcommittee Canceled 3 p.m. City Hall Council Chambers, 33282 Golden Lantern, 949.248.3597, www.danapoint.org. The next meeting is scheduled for January, 25, 2011.

New Year’s Eve Dinner Dance 5 p.m.-10 p.m. Celebrate New Year’s Eve on New York time. The City of Dana Point and the Dana Point Senior Center hosts a New Year’s Eve dinner and dance.

Food will be provided by the Jolly Roger Restaurant and live music by Pete Jacobs War Time Radio Orchestra. Tickets are $15 per person or $25 per couple and must be purchased by December 27.

Dana Point Community Center, 34052 Del Obispo Street, 949.248.3536, www. danapoint.org.

Wednesday, December 29

Monday, December 27 Senior Bingo 12:15 p.m.-12:45 Dana Point Community/Senior Center, 34052 Del Obispo Street, 949.248.3536, www.danapoint. org.

Senior Bingo 12:15 p.m.-12:45 Dana Point Community/Senior Center, 34052 Del Obispo Street, 949.248.3536, www.danapoint. org.

Dana Point’s Top 5 Hottest Topics

What’s Up With...

1

…More School Days?

THE LATEST: Two days of instruction have been restored in the 2010-2011 school calendar, Capistrano Unified School District Superintendent Joe Farley announced.

The days were to be non-working furlough days for district employees, but were restored according to negotiated agreements with employee associations as the district gained money from the federal government.

The reinstated days will be Thursday, February 17 and Friday, May 27.

WHAT’S NEXT: District officials urged parents to support this calendar change by making sure students attend school on both of the reinstated days—originally scheduled around President’s Day and Memorial Day. Any financial gains are temporary, though: The district is facing an anticipated budget shortfall of more than $20 million in coming years.

FIND OUT MORE: See the Beyond the Blackboard blog at www.sanclementetimes.com —JV

2

…Improvements at SONGS?

THE LATEST: The safety culture at San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station is improving, officials said at a December 14 meeting, even as the plant reported an incident at the plant.

A 4-foot steel beam, weighing about 40 pounds, was dropped into a pool containing spent fuel rods on Thanksgiving Day, but no damage or injuries occurred, officials said.

They also said there was no chance the incident could have caused a radiation release.

“From what we have seen so far, it appears the licensee responded to the incident appropriately but we are continuing our review, which will be documented in a forthcoming inspection report that will be publicly available,” Nuclear Regulatory Commission spokesman Victor Dricks said.

The incident was unrelated to the installation of new steam generators at the plant, and comes as SONGS has faced increased scrutiny from the NCR on its safety culture and on recognizing and addressing issues quickly. www.danapointtimes.com

Regulators earlier this month said the plant was improving in those areas.

WHAT’S NEXT: The plant has a new chief, too, in Pete Dietrich, who was brought in weeks ago.

“We reported to regulators concrete progress improving plant performance in areas where we have not matched industry standards,” said Southern California Edison Chief Nuclear Officer Pete Dietrich. “But we still have work to do.”

FIND OUT MORE: See www.sce.com/songs —JV

3

…Harkey Appointed to Appropriations Leadership Role?

THE LATEST: Assemblywoman Diane Harkey, who represents Dana Point, will serve as Vice-Chair of the powerful Assembly Appropriations Committee. The announcements come as Assembly Speaker John A. Pérez announced his legislative committee chair and vice chair appointments.

“Diane Harkey is one of the taxpayer’s best friends at the State Capitol,” said Assembly Republican Leader Connie Conway.

“With laser-like focus, she has worked tirelessly to eliminate wasteful and inefficient state spending. As Vice-Chair, she will be a vocal proponent for hard-working Californians, reigning in state spending and help our state live within its means again.”

Harkey, with a 30-year career in corporate finance and banking in her background, has been selected to be the lead Republican on solvency strategies.

“I am honored to serve as Vice-Chair and will ensure that this committee takes concrete steps to reign in discretionary spending,” Harkey said in a statement. “We must begin to set priorities, as we are battling recurring $20B+ deficits due to overspending and a lack of focus. We can restore the gold to California through responsible steps that reduce spending, reduce our dependence on borrowing and improve our cash flow position and credit rating.”

WHAT’S NEXT: Harkey will continue to serve

on the following committees: Banking and Finance, Budget, Budget Sub 5 – Public Safety, PERSS and Revenue and Taxation.

FIND OUT MORE: www.assembly.ca.gov/harkey —JV

4

…Mudslide Closes Coast Highway?

THE LATEST: A small mudslide was reported on the stretch of Coast Highway between Palisades Drive and Camino Capistrano in Capistrano Beach on Monday, December 20.

Mud and debris slid down the bluff face and on to the highway.

According to Dana Point Director of Public Works Brad Fowler, the slide was reported at around 6 a.m. and the cleanup required the closure of the northbound lane until 9:15 a.m.

Another smaller slide was discovered around noon the same day, but the K-rail successfully contained the material preventing it from reaching the roadway.

WHAT’S NEXT: “The city will continue to monitor the roadway hourly to make sure that it remains clear of debris during this storm period,” said Fowler. “With this concentration of rain and the supersaturation it is expected to cause, it wouldn’t be surprising to see some additional slide activity.”

FIND OUT MORE: Stay tuned for updates and consider using an alternate route while the wet weather continues.

—Andrea Swayne

5

…Minor Drinking, Major Problem?

THE LATEST: The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence/Orange County Community Alliance Network, Mothers Against Drunk Driving and teens from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley are conducting a youth community service activity called “Sticker Shock” to prevent underage drinking in Dana Point on Wednesday, December 29 at 10 a.m.

Participants will visit places where alcohol

is sold and place stickers on alcohol multipacks. The stickers contain messages about preventing alcoholic beverages from reaching the hands of area youth and create a visual reminder to purchasers that it is illegal to provide alcohol to anyone under the legal drinking age and that you have to be 21 years old to purchase alcohol.

WHAT’S NEXT: The Community Alliance Network is offering free educational presentations on marketing strategies and tactics used by the alcohol industry to promote alcohol use by youth. Presentations are available to community- and faith-based groups, after-school programs, high schools, middle schools, parent education programs and more.

Presentations are aimed at increasing knowledge of the techniques advertisers use to get the attention of youth, marketing tactics used to promote alcohol use by youth, new alcoholic products that target youth and other issues related to underage drinking.

FIND OUT MORE: For more information or to schedule a presentation for your group, contact Terah Glass at 949.595.2288 extension 318, or via email at tglass@canoc.org.

—AS

On the Bubble Other topics making news this week Man Dies at Harbor: A 54-year-old man who died on Sunday, December 12 while riding a rented personal watercraft at the Dana Point Harbor has been identified at Thomas Montgomery of Lake Forest.

Bystanders reported seeing the man floating face down in the water about 100 yards offshore near the breakwall at about 3:30 p.m.

According to Orange County Sheriff’s Department Public Information Officer Jim Amormino, lifeguards and Harbor Patrol Deputies responded and performed CPR on the man who was then rushed to San Clemente Hospital in critical condition. He was pronounced dead at the hospital on December 13.

The personal watercraft Montgomery was riding was impounded pending an investigation.

The results of an autopsy performed on December 14 confirmed the cause of death as accidental drowning, said Amormino.

December 24–30, 2010 • Dana Point Times • Page 3

Eye on DP

A Red Tail’s Tale WWII Tuskegee Airman Mitch Higginbotham recalls his days serving on the nation’s first all-black aerial combat unit

By Christina Scannapiego Dana Point Times

W

hen 90-year-old Fountains at Sea Bluffs resident Mitch Higginbotham shows up for his 9 a.m. Tai Chi class in the clubhouse or late afternoon martinis in the lounge, there isn’t a soul in the retirement community— resident or staff member—who doesn’t recognize him. But Higginbotham isn’t just popular because of his ultra gregarious disposition; he served on the nation’s first all-black aerial combat unit, the Tuskegee Airmen (dubbed so because they were trained at the Tuskegee Institute Airfield in Tuskegee, Ala.) during World War II. Higginbotham, who opted to carry out his official duties on home turf as a civilian instructor rather than overseas, was one of only 450 of these pioneers (labeled Shwarze Vogelmenchen—“black birdmen”—by the Germans and Red Tails by the Americans because of the planes they operated). This illustrious group ultimately played a key role in the formal acceptance of blacks into the Armed Forces.

In fact, the Tuskegee Airmen story is so memorable that in 2011, Lucasfilm will release a George Lucas-directed movie, Red Tails, a work of historical fiction chronicling the lives and experiences of the Tuskegee Airmen, featuring big names in acting like Cuba Gooding Jr. and Terrence Howard. (And roughly at the same time of the movie release, PBS will also air a documentary on the group, in which Higginbotham will be included.) Higginbotham has met George Lucas several times over the years, when he contacted the Tuskegee Airmen—now a nonprofit organization with 55 chapters nationwide dedicated to honoring the accomplishments African Americans who participated in WWII—for research. The story of Higginbotham’s peers is one that Lucas has been holding on to, meaning to translate onto the big screen for nearly two decades and he is now finally giving the vision life. “He was bogged down with things like Star Wars at the time,” Higginbotham recalls, with a smile at the understatement. “I’m excited. It’s long overdue—it’ll be enlightening to the general public and across the world.” For the remaining airmen, who were hardly excluded from the impacts of racial segregation prevalent throughout the United States at the time, their story had gone untold, for the most part, for much too long. “We were left out of the history books for a long time,” Higginbotham said, though they have gotten some attention in the last 15 years that’s been pointed at making up for the hardships they underwent due to the “Jim

Mitch Higginbotham in his red Tuskegee Airman jumpsuit.

Photo by Christina Scannapiego

www.danapointtimes.com

Mitch and Robert Higginbotham. Courtesy photo

Crow” mentality.

In 1995, HBO actually aired a movie about the Tuskegee Airmen and the slogan on the promotional artwork reads, “They fought two wars: One against the Nazis abroad/One against racism at home.”

“We were mainly engaged in a battle of equal rights,” Higginbotham explained from his spacious condo at the Fountains, atop a Dana Point hillside, proud to don his red Tuskegee uniform for the interview. Before World War II, only white men trained as pilots but the military felt pressure from the public and the president at the time, Theodore Roosevelt, to allow African Americans to train as well. But men like Higginbotham and his younger brother Robert—who also served as a Tuskegee Airman—were relegated to that separate training base. (Ironically, Higginbotham and his father registered for the draft at the same time and though he was listed as “negro,” his fairer-skinned father was listed as “white.”)

Higginbotham had begun a college education at Virginia State College for Negros, then worked in the steel mills near his hometown in southwest Pennsylvania in order to study at Tennessee State College. After being accepted into the draft, he completed the exam for Aviation Cadet and passed.

“I wanted to fly,” he said.

As the “negros” trained to be single-engine pilots, twin-engine pilots, navigators and bombardiers at Tuskegee, away from the white training camps and were then sent overseas, they found themselves fighting to suppress their internal anger from the racism and bigotry they endured. (Lucas’ movie will delve into those feelings.) Higginbotham was accustomed to the treatment, having grown up in Sewickley, Penn., where he couldn’t so much as go to the same movie theater as whites. Still, the treatment weighed him, along with the other black airmen, down.

“It was not good for our morale at all,” admitted Higginbotham. “It was like being a boxer with one hand tied behind his back. It was self-defeating for the military. It was a challenge to go through the whole process and maintain our dignity,” he continued. “We experienced constant embarrassment and humiliation.”

During the airmen’s physical exams, they were required to enter and exit the doctor’s office through a different door around the back of the building. When traveling from camp to home or abroad, they were denied meals while in transit at airport and train station cafeterias. “We were tired and hungry from traveling,” he recalled, “and we had to eat in a room where only employees ate.”

Their frustration slowly boiled over and about 100 of the 500 men refused to comply with the enforcement of segregation in one way or another, mostly by entering the common areas denied to the black service members, like the Officers’ Club, which was against military policy at the time. They were consequently court marshaled and locked up—the “crime” appearing on their permanent record.

Higginbotham’s roommate, Bill Terry, was actually con-

Mitch Higginbotham’s home is filled with memorabilia like this.

Photo by Christina Scannapiego

victed for battery against his supervisor and fined $150 when he bumped his shoulder passing him in order to get through and into the Officer’s Club. The Air Force finally, officially exonerated the Tuskegee airmen with marks against them in 1995—and paid back the price of their fines (“with no interest!”

Higginbotham added, laughing.)

“Mitch represents the African American struggle,” said Capistrano Valley Boys & Girls Club Executive, James Littlejohn, who first met Higginbotham about eight years ago when his son, Joshua—then part of the Boys & Girls Club’s “Adopt a Grandparent” after-school program—came home and told him he had “adopted” a “Susqueeky Airman.”

“He didn’t know how to pronounce ‘Tuskegee’ and he kept repeating ‘Susqueeky,’” Littlejohn said, jokingly. “Finally I asked him, ‘Tuskegee?’ He said, ‘Yeah, that’s it!’ and I couldn’t believe that my son had met a Tuskegee Airman. I thought, ‘I gotta meet this guy.’” The significance of the encounter meant a lot more to Littlejohn than to his son who, at 10, wasn’t quite the US history buff and already generations removed from the reality of racial segregation. “At that time, [Joshua] didn’t understand what the Tuskegee men went through just to be recognized.” Excited, Littlejohn set up a meeting with Higginbotham.

“There was a piece of living history right in front of me.”

The encounter stemmed into a longtime friendship, from which Littlejohn—and his son—took much inspiration. After all, Higginbotham was among the first generation of his family members to attend college. Unsurprisingly, the Higginbothams have all made impressive names for themselves with professions like orthopedic surgeon, lawyer or judge, despite the steep battles they faced while reaching their goals—Higginbotham and his peers were court marshaled nine years before Rosa Parks refused to sit in the back of the bus. “There aren’t many African Americans in South Orange County. And to have become friends with someone with that much history—it means a lot to me,” said Littlejohn. “I can’t even recount all the stories he’s shared; there have been so many. He’s a wealth of knowledge. He and the other Tuskegee Airmen opened so many doors—he’s an unbelievable person.”

For more info, www.tuskegeeairmen.org. DP December 24–30, 2010 • Dana Point Times • Page 5

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News Next Door

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

the group’s president read to McCarroll from the proclamation. “The foundation would like to take this opportunity to recognize one of San Clemente’s most positive and wonderful people.”

“I love San Clemente. It’s been so good to us over the years,” McCarroll said. “I wish I had another 25 years to give to these students and this community.”

For more information about the foundation, see www.spanishvillagefoundation.org.

Western White House Model Donated to Nixon Library The Heritage of San Clemente Foundation has donated a Western White House model to the Nixon Library in Yorba Linda.

The model was built in 1999 by local model maker, Malcolm Wilson. It is an exact replica of the Western White House, in San Clemente, when President Nixon lived there and is complete with small models of Nixon, his family and Secret Service agents.

The model was exhibited at the Heritage Museum on North El Camino Real, moved to the San Clemente Library lobby and then moved to the SunWest Lobby in 2005.

The donation to the Nixon Library gives it a permanent home where it can be viewed by thousands of visitors each year and is a fitting place for it to be exhibited. The model is currently placed in the main hallway leading to the Nixon Exhibit.

What’s in Your Stocking?

Babies born throughout December at Mission Hospital will go home in fuzzy red Christmas stockings, as the medical center continues a tradition launched in the 1970s.

That means Preston and Tina Masichuk of San Clemente brought home little Maximus wrapped in a warm stocking.

Maximus, the couple’s second child, was

DP Sheriff’s Blotter

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

Job Opening for City Manager Capistrano Unified School District Trustees Gary Pritchard and Sue Palazzo, teacher Robert McCarrol, CUSD Trustee John Alpay, also a board member on the Spanish Village Foundation, Spanish Village Foundation President Mike Cotter and San Clemente High Principal George Duarte during Friday’s presentation. Photo by Jonathan Volzke

born on Monday, December 13 at 9:04 p.m.

Their daughter, Heidi, is 2. Preston Masichuk is a Camp Pendleton-based Marine.

Mission delivers more than 3,000 babies annually.

Auto Academy Teacher Robert McCarroll Honored The Spanish Village Foundation, a group “dedicated to reinforcing all that is good about San Clemente,” on Friday honored

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Aurelio Drive/La Cresta Drive (9:11 p.m.)

A caller contacted deputies to check out a suspicious man sitting in a tan minivan.

The caller said the man was making her nervous because he had just watched her while she was taking out the trash.

through the walls.

VANDALISM REPORT Pacific Coast Highway, 34200 Block (2:12 p.m.) Police received a report of what appeared to be gang graffiti on a wall behind the building at this location.

ILLEGAL PEDDLING 33300 Block, Cove Island Place (2:14 p.m.) A male in a small white truck with a refrigeration unit in the bed was seen trying to sell frozen meat throughout the neighborhood. It was said the man looked like “Chester the Molester.” He was very “creepy” and was coming up to the windows on houses rather than knocking on the doors.

Compiled By Ma d i Sway n e All information below is obtained from the Orange County Sheriff’s 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.

Sunday, December 20 RECKLESS DRIVING Crown Valley Parkway/Pacific Coast Highway A gold Toyota Camry and a silver Kia were driving at a high rate of speed and cutting each other off during a possible “road rage” incident.

DISTURBANCE Copper Lantern, 33800 Block (1:18 a.m.)

A resident called police to report that there were people out on the patio at the house next door talking and laughing loudly. The caller had reportedly asked them to quiet down but instead they just kept getting louder and louder.

Saturday, December 19

longtime San Clemente High School auto academy teacher Robert McCarroll.

A group of school officials joined Spanish Village leaders Mike Cotter and John Alpay, also a Capistrano Unified School District trustee, in surprising McCarroll in his classroom on Friday.

McCarroll taught the nationally recognized auto academy classes for 35 years.

He has returned out of retirement to keep the program strong until a replacement is hired.

“The mission of the Foundation is to recognize, celebrate and promote the positive aspects of San Clemente,” Cotter,

Thursday, December 16 TRESPASSING 34100 Block, Pacific Coast Highway (11:27 p.m.) A patrol check was requested for two 19-year-old males. One of the young men was out in front of the business panhandling for money. The caller was concerned they may have been driving away business.

FOUND PROPERTY 32500 Block, Street of the Golden Lantern (8:47 p.m.) A wedding ring was found at a fast food restaurant. Deputies were called.

DISTURBANCE-FAMILY DISPUTE 33900 Block, Alcazar Drive (5:42 p.m.)

A male and female were heard yelling inside of a residence. The female subject was heard crying and screaming, “Don’t touch me,” while the male subject was heard yelling obscenities. The caller said it sounded as if there were going to break

Page 6 • Dana Point Times • December 24–30, 2010

SUSPICIOUS VEHICLE 34000 Block, Pacific Coast Highway (2:32 p.m.) A red Volkswagen vehicle was seen parked all day with the top down. The car was full of leaves and trash.

ANNOYING PHONE CALL 34800 Block, Called del Sol (12:58 p.m.) A woman called to report that her stepsister and her stepsister’s transient boyfriend were calling and harassing her and her sick mother in law.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON Pacific Coast Highway/Del Obispo Street (12:50 a.m.) A possible transient subject jumped in front of the caller’s car on Pacific Coast Highway. The subject was wearing a light colored jacket and had a beard.

Wednesday, December 15 SUSPICIOUS PERSON 34000 Block, Street of the Violet Lantern (7:03 p.m.) A caller reported two males

Want to be the City Manager in San Juan Capistrano? Applications are due by February 7.

The job will pay $190,000 to $225,000. Dave Adams made $145,000 in salary and $66,500 in benefits when he left the position 18 months ago. Since then, Joe Tait has served in the City Manager and Utilities Director positions simultaneously. He drew salaries totaling $324,000, but said he was saving the city money because he did not take retirement or other benefits.

The job posting says applicants should have a minimum of 10 years experience in municipal management. It also says candidates should have a “can do” attitude, help the council reach a consensus and has “the ability to market the city as a destination” among other qualities.

Those interested can see the posting at http://sanjuancapistrano.org/Index. aspx?page=149.

who were about to break into his car. The caller scared them off and they biked away towards the bar. One was on a mountain bike, and the other was on a BMX bike.

DISTURBANCE 34100 Block, Pacific Coast Highway (4:01 p.m.)

A homeless man who goes into the restaurant on a daily basis, refused to leave. The caller asked him to leave the building, but he refused saying she should leave him alone, and that he was, “Gonna urinate all over the restaurant.”

SUSPICIOUS PERSON La Serena Drive/La Cresta Drive (4:53 a.m.)

Two subjects, one in a blue sweatshirt, the other in a black, were seen running on La Cresta Drive. The subjects were headed towards El Encanto and were carrying a 30-inch flat screen television.

Tuesday, December 14 SUSPICIOUS PERSON 34200 Block, Pacific Coast Highway (7:51 p.m.) A male subject with a mustache and dark jacket was consistently coming to the door and ringing the doorbell. The man would not leave.

The psychic informant had a creepy premonition about the man.

WELFARE CHECK 34200 Block, Camino Capistrano (11:39 a.m.)

Police were called when a 25- to 30-year-old mother’s child would not stop crying. The caller, a neighbor, was concerned, fearing that the mom was not taking proper care of the child. www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

News Bites

The Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary Club donated $2,000 to the Doheny State Beach Interpretive Association at their December 8 meeting, held at the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Monarch Beach. Rotary Club President James Littlejohn and Past President Russell Kerr presented the check to DSBIA Board Member Ed Neely and Doheny State Beach Supervising Ranger Jim Serpa in appreciation for the support of the Rotary Club’s inaugural Lobster Fest held last June in the park. The funds will be used in DSBIA’s repair and renovation of the Visitor Center at the State Beach. “It’s an honor to have this partnership with Monarch Sunrise Rotary Club,” said Neely. “I know from past experience as an educator that they are important supporters of child, family and community oriented causes and programs.” Monarch Beach Rotary has started planning their Second Annual Dana Point Lobster Fest, to be held at Doheny State Beach on Saturday, June 25, 2011. The event includes an all you can eat buffet featuring lobster and steak, lively spirits, music and auctions. Profits from the event will benefit local children’s charities, including the Doheny State Beach Interpretive Association. The Doheny State Beach Interpretive Association is a support organization to Doheny State Beach with the mission of promoting educational activities and to assist with the preservation and restoration of the park and its interpretive facilities. The current primary focus of the Association is the restoration of its Visitor Center with tide pool, aquariums and local animal exhibits. Before its closure, the Visitors Center was the largest aquarium in the California State Park system and the largest free aquarium in Orange County. In 2007, it was damaged by flooding, termites and the subsequent discovery of black mold. Through DSBIA’s fundraising efforts over the past three years, the restoration of the facility is well on its way with a hoped for grand reopening in the late summer of 2011. For more information, visit www.dohenystatebeach.org and www.monarchbeachrotary.com.

u

Compiled by Andrea Swayne

PROPS, RECOGNITIONS AND MORSELS OF INFO Start saving your recyclable plastic bottles and cans; Dana Hills High School Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) has started a community recycling program one Saturday a month.

The program offers residents an opportunity to drive by the high school and drop off plastic bottles and cans which will be collected, sorted and recycled by student volunteers. Funds collected will go directly to student programs funded by PTSA on the campus. The next community event is scheduled for Saturday, January 22, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Dana Hills campus.

PTSA is partnering with student volunteers from the school’s chapter of the California Scholarship Federation (CSF). CSF members are required to work three recycling events per semester to maintain their membership. In addition, the PTSA hopes to increase campus-wide recycling by instituting a regular collection schedule for plastic bottles and cans from collection bins on campus as well as providing a recyclables drop-off point for community residents one Saturday a month.

“We are thrilled to have our PTSA partnering with CSF on this important school and community program, said Principal Dr. Robert Nye. “The PTSA will be handling event supervision for our on-campus recycling days and our newly instituted event one Saturday per month. The Saturday event will allow our CSF students who are busy with sports or other after school activities the opportunity to more easily earn their required recycling hours,” Nye added.

Since October, student volunteers have been collecting, sorting and bagging plastic bottles and cans from bright blue bins around the central mall area of the school after school. PTSA president Gayle Paride hopes to expand collection points on the campus and include classrooms and sports events. “With our involvement, our hope is to further expand our campus collection points to help keep our campus ‘green,’” said Paride. “With our parent volunteers, we can support this program and provide the necessary guidance and resources to further expand this program,” she added.

A new component of the recycling program has been the addition of the Saturday morning recycling drive. Residents can pull up to the curb in their vehicle from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. and student volunteers will haul out the recyclables. The items are then sorted by the students and stored in a recycling container provided by CR&R. Future community recycling event dates will be announced in the upcoming months. The high school is located at 33333 Golden Lantern Street, Dana Point. Recycling is collected in the back parking lot of the school, near the tennis courts and pool area.

u

The Dana Point Youth Board conducted the judging in their 11th Annual Holiday Home Decorating Contest last week. The winners each received a See’s Candy gift basket presented

by Youth Board member Sean O’Connor. First place: 33382 Via Lenita; Second place: 34512 Via Espinoza; Third place: 34422 Via Espinoza. A leisurely drive through Dana Point to see these and all of the other beautifully decorated homes makes a nice holiday family activity.

u

The Dana Point Woman’s Club will be holding a Health and Wellness Luncheon on January 6 at 11:15 a.m. at the Dana Point Community House, 24642 San Juan Street in Dana Point. The luncheon theme will be: New You in a New Year. The event will feature many vendors and panel speakers covering topics such as health, cooking, water, facial care, Chi-Cong energy and more.

For reservations call Jean at 949.837.5227. Cost is $15 per person.

u

Have something interesting for the community?

Tell us about awards, events, happenings, accomplishments and more.

Send your information to editorial@danapointtimes.com.

HARBOR HAPPENINGS

Santa’s Helpers at Camp Pendleton J

Dana Point Yacht Club members rally to help wrap presents donated to Wounded Warriors’ families at Camp Pendleton. Photo by Barb Merriman

Page 8 • Dana Point Times • December 24–30, 2010

anice Steele is at it again. A few years ago her and husband Will’s son was in the Marines. Because of the connection, Janice and Will began to support the Marines from Pendleton in various ways. You may have read my story a couple of weeks ago about the Christmas party that Janice organized with the help of Eileen Mauch and a few others, for the sixth year in a row at Dana Point Yacht Club. Ninety-six children came this year to have lunch with Santa and to receive some pretty special gifts. It was a grand day—one of those “feel good” kind of B Y B A R B A R A days for all who were involved.

M E R R I M A N No sooner than that endeavor was finished, Janice was at the base delivering a few left over toys that we had from the Santa Lunch event, and discovered that there have been hundreds of toys and dolls and games and puzzles and books donated to the children of wounded warriors. She saw that the two staff people who were wrapping the gifts were in over their heads and would have to work night and day to finish, so she put out a call to the Dana Point Yacht Club Social Committee.

In response to her call for help, last Wednesday twelve of us carpooled down to the base, armed with scissors, tape and wrapping paper and began wrapping gifts.

Barbara Merriman spends some time helping to wrap gifts for families of Marines at Camp Pendleton. Courtesy photo

It was another “feel good” event for those of us who were doing the wrapping, and when an invitation came to share lunch with the Marines in that building who had brought in a wonderful potluck, we felt even better.

Those guys and girls can really cook! What fun it was to be able to help in a small way.

It seems that there is always something that volunteers can do to help out in various areas on Camp Pendleton. Just being down there makes us appreciate how hard these men and women work, train and sacrifice for our country. The little bits we can do to bring a smile to a child and the child’s parent or parents, seems very small compared to what these parents are giving back.

Think of all our service men and women this holiday season and when you see an opportunity to donate a gift, or sit and read for an hour to a child, or donate supplies to be sent to military bases overseas—just do it! You may spend a little bit of money and donate a little bit of your valuable time, but it is really worth it when you will realize how much your efforts have helped. It is a very good feeling. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! DP www.danapointtimes.com

Eye on DP

Business Beat

ANNIVERSARY

By CHRISTINA SCANNAPIEGO

News and updates on Dana Point’s business community

CHAMBER NEWS u Chamber Citizen and Business of the Year Chosen The Chamber of Commerce has selected the 2010 Citizen of the Year and Business of the Year Award recipients. They’ll be recognized at the Chamber’s 2011 Installation Dinner & Annual Meeting.

Lara Anderson, the 2010 Citizen of the Year is currently serving as City of Dana Point Mayor Pro Tem and has the distinction of being the youngest council member and Mayor (2006) of Dana Point. She was elected to the City Council in 2004 and re-elected in 2008, receiving the most votes in Dana Point’s history. Anderson is known for her love of the Dana Point community, stemming from a long history of volunteerism. She was essential in bringing back the Festival of Whales parade, merging the two pro-humane non-profit organizations supporting the local animal shelter into one united, financially stable group, and has held leadership positions for several organizations Lara Anderson. Courtesy photo including Beta Foster Care Advisory Board, Dana Point Historical Society, Festival of Whales Committee, Lantern Village Association, Pet Project Foundation/ Animal Rescue Foundation of Dana Point and was a five-time chairperson of the Wag-A-Thon, the largest pets and people event in Orange County. During her tenure on the Lantern Village Association, the Clean-Up Days were so successful, the City of Dana Point adopted the program. As a City Council Member, she continues to support the community and her fellow volunteers, who give the precious gift of their time.

The Dana Point Chamber of Commerce 2010 Business of the Year Award goes to Minuteman Press for being an outstanding business organization based on their Chamber involvement and support, community involvement and business standards. Located in the heart of Dana Point, the owner-operated franchise is part of a worldwide organization of over 900 printing shops. Minuteman Press, Dana Point opened in 1992 and was purchased by Mits Arayama in 2005. Arayama is currently a Dana Point Chamber of Commerce Board Member, has been Ambassador of the Month many times throughout the year, and brings incredible business acumen to the Dana Point area. His previous experience includes being CEO with Nissin Foods and introducing new cuisines to the U.S. like Top Ramen and Cup Noodles. u The 2011 Installation Dinner and Annual Meeting will take place on Wednesday, January 26, 2011 at the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa. The evening will include a no-host cocktail hour, dinner, live entertainment, awards and the installation of the 2011 Board of Directors. The Chamber will be honoring Outgoing Chair Georgia Theodor of Dana Plaza Business Services and will welcome Russell Kerr of Edward Jones Investments as Incoming Chair.

BUSINESS BITES u Look Who’s Under the Mistletoe It’s Kathy McCool of McCool Flowers in the Ocean Ranch Village shopping center. McCool recently told one of her floral vendors that she was in desperate need of mistletoe.

“When someone showed up at my vendor’s place with this great big mistletoe she immediately thought of me,” said McCool. “She called me and said, ‘Oh my gosh, I’ve got the most serious piece of mistletoe you’ve ever seen!’ And she sent it right over.” The giant mistletoe bush in McCool’s shop—technically a parasitic plant that grows within the branches of host trees—is roughly three feet long and four feet wide. “People are overwhelmed when they look up,” McCool said.

Mistletoe has been used and known in European folklore for ages, mostly as a protection against poison, to bestow life and fertility and as an aphrodisiac. Kissing under the mistletoe was associated with an ancient Greek festival and then later with some marriage rights. And though McCool hasn’t received any kisses yet, “it’s still early!” she said. She’s selling pieces of it for $3 a bunch.

McCool Flowers is located at 32585 Golden Lantern and can be reached at 949.488.7988 or on the web at www.mccoolflowers.com.

Kathy McCool under a giant mistletoe at McCool Flowers. Photo by Katie Altman

SEND US YOUR BUSINESS NEWS To get business news in this section, send an e-mail to editorial@danapointtimes.com. “Business Beat” will include updates and happenings that occurred within six to eight weeks of publication.

Page 10 • Dana Point Times • December 24–30, 2010

u Casanova Italian Restaurant Celebrates Nine Years Casanova Italian Restaurant and Cocktail Lounge is celebrating nine years of serving authentic Venetian and Northern Italian cuisine to Dana Point. December 10 was their official anniversary and they had a little celebration, offering free appetizers to their customers. “We had the best year ever,” said owner, Nik Doda, who is there to greet his guests and make sure everything runs smoothly every day. “We’re waiting to do the big, big celebration next year with music and everything. We just want to please our customers. They’ve supported us all these years.”

Casanova is located at 33585 Del Obispo St. Reach them at 949.496.0992, www.casanovaristorante.com.

Photo by Christina Scannapiego

NEW OWNERSHIP u United Studios of Self Defense Has New Owner Michael Breazeale is the proud new owner of United Studios of Self Defense at 32585 Goldern Lantern, located next to McCool flowers. The studio has been offering Dana Point professional private and group instruction for men, women and children for over 15 years and they don’t plan on making any significant changes right now.

Though Breazeale is new to this location, he’s been with the company at another location in Foothill Ranch for years and is one of two veteran instructors at Dana Point’s United Studios. They’ll have their grand re-opening in January. Reach them at 949.248.3340.

DANA POINT BUSINESS OF THE MONTH FOR DECEMBER 2010:

Collins Holdings

By Lynn Kelly, Management Analyst, Dana Point Economic Development Department

H

ere in Dana Point, Collins Holdings LLC own and manage the Dana Marina Plaza and Capistrano Surf Center. Since they purchased the Dana Marina Plaza in 2002, they have renovated and uplifted the entire center and made vast improvements to drive business into the plaza. At the time, the center was 70 percent vacant due to deferred maintenance. They have brought in a mix of retail and office space providing unique offerings for the community, and the center now has one of the lowest vacancy rates in the area. More recently, they have acquired the Capistrano Surf Center in Capistrano Beach, and have started the enhancement process.

John and Damian Collins believe in pride of ownership and a hands-on management service, giving them a strong competitive advantage over larger corporate competition. With over 35 years of experience and over a million square feet of ground-up development background, they have the expertise to make quick, definitive decisions in the field that result in efficient business and maintaining unusually low-vacancy rates. They focus on spaces that are 50,000 square feet and below and within an hour’s drive of Dana Point, in order to maintain their hands-on approach.

By taking personal responsibility for every issue that may arise, they have been able to maintain long-term tenants and help drive business into the city. Collins Holdings also has a strong track record in value added revitalization of existing shopping centers and office structures for long-term hold.

John and Damian make a tremendous effort to donate time, resources, and assistance to the 5th Marine Regiment and their Support Group at Camp Pendleton. Over the past several years, John and Damian have helped organize a golf tournament with over 140 participants, fundraise for the Marine Corps Birthday Ball, collect toys for children of soldiers, and hold go-

John and Damian Collins of Collins Holdings LLC accept Business of the Month recognition from Mayor Steven Weinberg, December 2011. Photo by Dyanne Weamire

ing away and homecoming celebrations for the unit. Recently, they helped send over 200 boxes to soldiers overseas. On Thanksgiving, they even cooked and hosted a Thanksgiving celebration for Marines and their families. John and Damian truly promote the cooperation of our community to show admiration and appreciation for everything the 5th Marine Regiment does for the safety of our country.

Collins Holdings LLC is located at 24901 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Ste. 200, Dana Point and can be reached by phone at 949.661.7473. Their website is www. collinsholdingsllc.com.

Each month, the Mayor selects a featured business of the month that has demonstrated success in the city and a commitment to the community. The city recognizes the featured Business of the Month during the first Dana Point City Council meeting each month. For more information about the featured Business of the Month, please contact Lynn Kelly at lkelly@danapoint.org or 949.248.3512. To see past Business of the Month recipients, log on to the City of Dana Point website at www.danapoint.org and click on “Business.” DP www.danapointtimes.com

SOAPBOX

2

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

DP

D a n a Po i nt

34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624 phone 949.388.7700 fax 949.388.9977 www.danapointtimes.com

HOW TO REACH US Editor Stories, News, CALENDAR, etc.

Andrea Swayne, 949.388.7700, x113 aswayne@danapointtimes.com Advertising Print and Online

Lauralyn Loynes, 949.388.7700, x102 lloynes@danapointtimes.com Distribution Racks, Driveways, Subscriptions

Andrea Swayne, 949.388.7700, x113 aswayne@danapointtimes.com Billing Alyssa Garrett, 949.388.7700, x100 agarrett@danapointtimes.com

Dana Point Times, Vol. 3, Issue 52. 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 ART/Design

Graphic Designer > Heidi Mefferd

Distribution Manager > Andrea Swayne

> Michele Reddick (San Clemente)

INTERNS Kirsten Amavisca Sacher, Madi Swayne

OPERATIONS Finance Director > Mike Reed

This Holiday Season and All Year Long

M

ore and more people are looking into “living” Christmas trees that they can decorate for the holidays and then plant in their yards for year-round enjoyment.

There are coniferous evergreens well-suited to our semi-arid coastal climate that look like “traditional” Christmas trees, such as Monterey Pines and Leyland Cypress. There are other evergreens also suited to our climate that are a bit “non-traditional” but great for hanging ornaments, such as Norfolk Island Pines.

These trees are available now throughout our area, and some nurseries may provide trees to your specifications for replanting in the New Year.

Whether you find yourself planting an evergreen tree or any other type of tree or large shrub in your yard next year, some of the best advice we can offer is: don’t trees plant over your private sewer line that runs under your property and connects your home to the District’s main sewer line. In fact, to be safe, plant 10 to 15 feet away from your sewer line and avoid trees all together with invasive root systems, such as ficus trees.

Page 12 • Dana Point Times • December 24–30, 2010

Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes

Sales Associate > Angela Edwards > Buddy Purel

Senior Designer > Jasmine Smith

Getting To the Root of the Problem:

What’s My Line?

Every homeowner has a private sewer line (also known as a private sewer lateral or a private service lateral). The homeowner’s sewer line carries wastewater from sinks, tubs, showers, clothes washers, diswashers and toilets to the sanitary sewer system where it is conveyed to a treatment plant. Most of the time, the homeowner’s sewer line connects to the District’s sewer main line under the street. (If you ever need specifics on where your sewer line connects to our main line, please contact us.)

Homeowners are responsible for the upkeep of their private sewer lines—just as South Coast Water District is responsible for the maintenance of the 141 miles of sewer lines, three miles of force mains, 14 lift stations and 3,700 manholes that constitute the public sewer system in our service area.

Business Operations Manager > Alyssa Garrett

> Sergio Sanchez (San Juan Capistrano)

GUEST OPINION: By Linda Homscheid, South Coast Water District

A “Root” Awakening South Coast Water District has found that tree roots growing into homeowners’ sewer lines are the leading cause of pipeline obstructions. Tree roots blocking sewer lines can cause untreated wastewater from indoor plumbing to back up into homes, onto properties and into streets.

Tree roots actually “sense” the presence of wastewater in homeowners’ sewer lines and can grow into the joints and connection points of pipelines, where possible. If enough roots grow into a line, the flow of wastewater could be blocked or significantly impeded, potentially causing it to back up.

Sewage and wastewater backing up into your kitchen or bathroom areas can damage property, be costly to clean and repair and, needless to say, be unsightly and highly inconvenient for everyone. There are also potential public health concerns and the possibility of beach closures, if the untreated sewage wastewater reaches storm drains and beaches and pollutes ocean water.

ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING

SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller, George Mackin, Rebecca Nordquist CONTRIBUTORS Tawnee Prazak, Christina Scannapiego

Online Reader Poll Are you feeling the holiday spirit?

Yes. I love this time of year!

88% It is just like any other time of year to me—no big deal.

0% No. Bah humbug!

13% 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.

To submit a letter to the editor for possible inclusion in the paper, e-mail us at letters@danapointtimes.com or send it to 34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624. Dana Point Times reserves the right to edit reader-submitted letters for length and is not responsible for the claims made or the information written by the writers.

EDITOR’S NOTE: By Andrea Swayne

Graphic provided by South Coast Water District

An initial indicator that roots may be blocking your private sewer line is when a sink, tub or shower drains slower than usual and continues to slow over time. The next indicator could be wastewater backing up in these drains.

Talk to a licensed plumber about inspecting, cleaning and, if necessary, repairing your sewer line. Together, you can decide the best maintenance schedule for your particular line, factoring in the condition of your line and typical indoor use. Repair or replace a deteriorated or damaged line immediately—and check with your plumber that all necessary city work permits are secured and that the work meets current city codes.

Please Call Before You Clean!

Before you clean your sewer line, call South Coast Water District at 949.499.4555, ext. 1. We will send our crew to catch any roots or debris that may be pushed during cleaning into our main sewer line from your sewer line. If roots get into our main line, they could obstruct the flow of wastewater and create a bigger problem for the entire neighborhood—like sewage getting onto property and overflowing into the street, storm drains and ocean. Let us help you prevent future problems; please call us before you clean!

Happy holidays and a “root-free” new year to all!

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.

A Last Minute Gift of Dana Point

A

bout ten years ago, local author, historian and Dana Point Historical Society Program Director Doris Walker designed an afghan blanket depicting various historical landmarks, figures and attractions. It has been sold out and unavailable for a couple of years now.

Just in time for the holiday season and right on cue with the cold wintry weather we have been experiencing, the Historical Society has reissued the collectible blanket and is offering them for sale for $40 each.

Proceeds from the sales will go to support the historical preservation efforts of the Society.

DP Historical Society afghan. Courtesy photo Searching for a last minute present for the person who has everything or just want to bring a bit of local history into your home? The Dana Point Historical Society afghan makes a cozy gift that also celebrates the rich history and beauty of Dana Point.

If you would like to get your hands on one of these cuddle-worthy pieces of Dana Point history, contact Historical Society President Carlos N. Olvera via email at olveracn@ speakeasy.net. DP

www.danapointtimes.com

GETTING OUT

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

DP

D a n a Po i nt

The List

A day-by-day guide to what’s happening in and around town this week. Compiled by Tawnee Prazak CHRISTMAS EVE

forecast: few showers • high: 57° low: 46°

Brian Young

7:30 p.m.–11 p.m. Iva Lee’s. 555 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.2855, www.ivalees.com.

Gray Whale Watching

12 p.m.; 2 p.m. Spend Christmas Eve on the sea searching for gray whales with Dana Wharf. Adults $29, kids $19. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com.

Piano Bar

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

DJ

9 p.m. Play pool and throw darts while a DJ spins music at Goody’s Tavern. 206 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.492.3400, www.goodystavern.com.

Rod Frias

8 p.m.-12 a.m. Talented artist plays at Wind and Sea Restaurant.

34699 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.6500, www.windandsearestaurants.com.

Put on your dancing shoes and ring in the New Year at the San Clemente Historical Society’s 2nd annual “New Year’s Eve under the Dome” at the historic Casino San Clemente. This festive welcome to 2011 will take place from 7 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., on December 31 and event organizers say this year’s party promises one of the most exciting celebrations of the New Year in South Orange County.

“The historic Casino is even more beautiful than it was last year,” said Historical Society President Georgette Korsen. “Linda and Shaheen Sadeghi have done a marvelous job of its restoration and the whole venue just shines.”

When the Casino first opened in 1937 it immediately became a popular Orange County social hub. The unique round ball room, domed roof and floating dance floor Casino San Clemente. Photo by Andrea Swayne drew crowds of locals, dignitaries and celebrities. The renovation has brought the building back to its original splendor and is once again making for an awe inspiring entertainment venue. The event will feature live music by the band Hot Pursuit, delectable appetizers, a sit-down dinner and dessert bar by San Clemente restaurateur Tony Carbonara. The party is a fundraising event to benefit the Historical Society and will include a silent auction and raffle. Individual tickets are $100 per person and can be purchased by calling 949.493.5561. Attendees are encouraged to order their tickets as soon as possible, as this event sells out quickly! Cocktail attire is requested. For more information, log on to www.sanclementehistoricalsociety.org and click on “Events.” —Andrea Swayne

Christmas Buffet and Dinner

12 p.m.; 3 p.m. Join the Ritz Carlton Laguna Niguel for a holiday buffet in the oceanfront Pavilions (12 p.m.-6 p.m.) or dinner at Raya (3 p.m.-9 p.m.). Cost $110 adults, $55 kids.

1 Ritz-Carlton Drive, Dana Point, 949.240.2000, www.ritzcarlton.com.

8 a.m.; 9 a.m.; 11 a.m.; 1 p.m. Multiple Christmas Day services at the Mission Basilica Church. 1 p.m. Mass is in Spanish. 31522 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.1360, www.missionparish.org.

sunday26

9 p.m. DJs spin hit music at OC Tavern. Free. 2369 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.542.8877, www.octavern.com.

Karaoke

9 p.m. El Mariachi Restaurant hosts Karaoke Night in English and Spanish every Friday and Saturday. 1925 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.369.5111.

A Christmas Carol

7:30 p.m. Holiday production of the classic story at the South Coast Repertory. Through Dec. 26; times vary. Tickets $20-$66.

655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.5555, www.scr.org.

5 p.m.-10 p.m. Vine hosts a special Christmas Eve dinner.

211 El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.9367, www.vinesanclemente.com.

CHRISTMAS DAY

forecast: partly cloudy • high: 63° low: 46°

CafE Mozart Christmas Dinner

4 p.m.-8 p.m. Special dinner menu at Cafe Mozart for the holiday. 31952 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.0212, www.cafemozart.net

9 a.m.-2 p.m. Brunch at The Next Door with lively and harmonious bluegrass music starting at 11 a.m. 647 Camino de los Mares, 949.940.8845, www.nextdoorsc.com.

Ukulele Nights

5 p.m.-8 p.m. Bring your Ukulele, sing along or listen to the music at Hulaville’s newest event. Every Sunday. 2720 Camino Capistrano, San Clemente, 949.369.1905, www.hulavillecafe.com.

Pato Banton

8 p.m. Reggae concert at The Coach House; also with Entropy / Phat Reggae Dub Status. Tickets $15. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

monday27

San Clemente Farmers Market

forecast: partly cloudy • high: 62° low: 43°

9 a.m.-1 p.m. Fresh produce, flowers and more every Sunday along Avenida Del Mar. Rain or shine.

Science of Gingerbread

10 a.m.-5 p.m. Holiday exhibit at the Discovery Science Center with gingerbread fun! Features activities, shows, displays, cookie decorating, workshops and more. Open through Jan. 2. Adults $12.95, kids $9.95. 2500 N. Main Street, Santa Ana, 714.542.2823, www.discoverycube.org.

Plant & Mistletoe Walk

9 a.m.-11 a.m. Sunday morning walk through the wild lands at The Donna O’Neill Land Conservancy searching for seasonal fruits and more. Adults $10, kids $5, members free. Info and directions: 949.489.9778, www.theconservancy.org.

View dolphins, whales, sharks and more with Capt Dave’s Dolphin Safari aboard a high-tech catamaran sailboat. Departures daily, call for times. 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.488.2828, www.dolphinsafari.com.

Mommy Movie Mondays

10 a.m. Special screening of the movie Little Fockers for parents of infants at San Clemente’s Krikorian theater, tickets $6.75.

641 Camino de los Mares, San Clemente, 949.661.7469, www.kptmovies.com.

Kids Holiday Crafts

12 p.m.-2 p.m. The Mission offers holiday crafts for kids including doll making and toy making/decorating Dec 27-29. Free with paid admission, $5-$9. 26801 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.

$5 Mondays

5 p.m.-8 p.m. Join SC Wine Company for Happy Hour featuring three wines for $5, glasses of selected wines for $5 and mugs of beer from $5 & up! 212 1/2 Avenida Del Mar, 949.429.7067, www.scwinecompany.com.

Smokey Karaoke

Heartless

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

Danman’s Trio

tuesday28

2:30 p.m. Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

6 p.m.-9 p.m. Acoustic trio at Renaissance. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.renaissance-danapoint.com.

Ryan Heflin

Vine Dinner

Bluegrass Brunch & Music

forecast: mostly cloudy • high: 62° low: 44°

Signature Safari

Groove Lounge

www.danapointtimes.com

New Year’s Eve at Casino San Clemente

Christmas Day Mass

friday24

saturday25

Go See Do

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

Kids’ Fishing CLINIC

12 p.m. Free fishing clinic on the dock followed by a half-day fishing trip for kids hosted by Dana Wharf every Sunday.

34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com.

Holiday Brunch

10 a.m.-2 p.m. Irons in the Fire hosts their legendary brunch with a holiday twist. Cost $22.95 each, includes champagne.

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

forecast: sunny • high: 63° low: 43°

Lewis & Clark Expedition Across America

8 a.m.-5 p.m. Check out the exhibit that examines Lewis and Clark’s remarkable adventure at Mission San Juan Capistrano.

Runs through March. Free with admission $5–$9. 26801 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.

KnitLit - The Knitting Book Group

6 p.m. Bring your craft or knitting project and discuss the book Emma by Jane Austen with group members at the San Juan Capistrano Library. Refreshments provided, book copies at checkout desk. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org.

(Cont. on page 16) December 24–30, 2010 • Dana Point Times • Page 15

GETTING OUT

DP Times Restaurant Spotlight

By Andrea Swayne

Chipotle Mexican Grill 32391 Golden Lantern, Suite A, 949.272.5605, www.chipotle.com Best Known For: Fresh, fast food

Most Popular Item: Build-your-own burritos, salt and lime chips with guacamole

Since founder Steve Ells started his first restaurant in Denver, Colorado in 1993, Chipotle has enjoyed a loyal following. They even have a page on their website devoted to fan photos, videos and stories from people all over the world. The word fan is, after all, from the word fanatic that refers to someone with intense enthusiasm and devotion for something. Why? Because the food is just that good! The menu is short, but the options are endless. Mix and match fresh ingredients to create delicious burritos, tacos and salads. Choose from high quality meats cooked to tender and juicy perfection—the steak and chicken are marinated and grilled and the pork carnitas and barbacoa shredded beef are seasoned and braised. Then layer on your choice of fajita veggies, black or pinto beans, corn, cilantro-lime rice, cheese, guacamole, sour cream, crisp lettuce and three styles of salsas. For those watching their carb intake, order a burrito bowl—everything that would normally go inside a burrito, but without the tortilla. As Chipotle has grown into a large chain—now a publicly traded stock with over 870 locations—the quality of the food has been carefully maintained. In fact, it’s better. For over a decade now, Chipotle has made it their mission to source sustainably raised food whenever possible—naturally raised chicken and pork, local organic produce and dairy from cows raised without synthetic hormones—and is continually looking for new sources that meet their high standards. The food is served fast, but it definitely is not fast food.

Chipotle Mexican Grill. Photo by Heidi Mefferd

Price Range: $1.65-$6.63

Reservations: Not necessary

Payment: Cash, credit card Hours: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. every day

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” share your thoughts about this week’s restaurant.

(Cont. from page 15)

Cheryl Silverstein & John Paul Keene 7:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m. The pianist and females vocalist perform holiday tunes and jazz standards at Renaissance.

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

Benny on Flamenco Guitar

7 p.m.–11 p.m. Benny performs live music at The Cellar.

156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com.

wednesday29 forecast: few showers • high: 61° low: 45°

Kids Storytime at the Casa

10 a.m. Casa Romantica hosts storytime for youngsters ages 3-5; free. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org.

The Dupp Brothers

8 p.m.-12 a.m. Live hippy hillbilly music and food served ‘til 9 p.m. at The Rib Joint. No cover charge. 34294 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.661.9500.

Brandi Smith & Mick Taras

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

Karaoke

9:30 p.m. Your chance to sing live at Molly Blooms Irish Bar & Restaurant. 2391 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.218.0120, www.mollybloomspub.com.

Dan Lefler and the Danimals

7:30 p.m.-11 p.m. Regular hit group at Renaissance. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.renaissance-danapoint. com.

Rabbi Blue

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

Karaoke

7 p.m. Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

thursday30 forecast: mostly cloudy • high: 64° low: 44°

Satin Blues

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

Page 16 • Dana Point Times • December 24–30, 2010

ON STAGE

Food Truck & Fare Thursdays

Vaudeville Meets Rock and Roll

11 a.m.-2 p.m. A variety of gourmet food trucks that changes weekly at the OC Fair & Event Center. 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.1500, www.ocfair.com.

Chris Cram and the Oxymormon oneman band 8 p.m.-12 a.m. Classic rock with Chris at The Rib Joint. Food served till 9 p.m. 34294 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.661.9500.

Hugh Lehane

9 p.m. Live music at Molly Blooms Irish Bar & Restaurant. 2391 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente 949.218.0120. www.mollybloomspub.com.

Brandi Smith & Mick Taras

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

The Painkillerz

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

Yard Dogs Road Show

8 p.m. Special stage show with the “hobo cabaret,” that’s “a living patchwork of vaudeville and rock and roll.” Tickets $15 advance, $18 day of show. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

UPCOMING: December 31

NYE Dance

5 p.m.-10 p.m. The Dana Point Community Center and Senior Center host an early NYE dancing event. Tickets $15 or $25 per couple. 34052 Del Obispo St., Dana Point, 949.248.3536, www.danapoint.org.

OC Fair NYE Block Party

7 p.m.-2 a.m. All-new OC Fair NYE Party featuring demolition derby, gourmet food trucks, Hypnotist Mark Yuzuik and tribute bands covering several decades of music. Tickets start at $25.

Parking $10. 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.1500, www.ocfair.com.

New Year’s Eve with The Tubes

8 p.m. The Coach House presents the exciting, in-your-face band for a crazy fun NYE concert. Tickets $35.

33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

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

Have an event?

Send your listing to events@danapointtimes.com

Yard Dogs Road Show Stops at The Coach House

T

he Yard Dogs Road Show is a hobo cabaret, a living patchwork of vaudeville and rock and roll. In the enchanting land of stage show entertainment theirs is both pleasant and formidable terrain. They require sensitivity to the subtle and the absurd. They lead the modern hobohemian on a visual and sonic journey through part of history that may or may not have existed—followed by an ambitious return to the emotional challenges of our punchdrunk contemporary world.

We caught up with Shenandoah Ableman, performer and publicist for YDRS via E-mail, on what the audience is in store for at the upcoming Coach House show.

Please relate to our readers the essence of your upcoming show and how the evening will progress. The Yard Dog’s latest review is a sonic and psychedelic experience you will NEVER forget! We’ll quickly sweep you off your feet in astral flight through sensual dreamscapes of tropical isles, ponies and carousels… singing showgirls, death-defying feats, and… by magic and mysticism we guarantee to break you free of the bondage of the material world and enter our realm of dreams come true. Finally, a circus that is more than smoke and mirrors…

How has the act changed over the years since the YDRS was formed in 1998? The Yard Dogs Road Show has shifted many times since it’s conception and continues to evolve with each year. It is an ever-changing beast of creation that no one person has the reigns on. To put it simply, it has grown from a three-piece jug band playing at abandoned shacks and agreeable bars into a thirteen-person production with dancing girls, a sword swallower, a chicken, a lighting and sound crew, a driver, loads of stage props and banners that all fits snugly inside our 1972 GMC tour bus, June Rider.

If you look up “eclectic” in the dictionary, the first definition will be Yard Dogs Road Show. As soon as you’ve warmed up to the sword swallower, you’re senses are dismantled and reassembled to embrace larger than life rabbits and rainbows, sexy burlesque, belly dancers and hard-hitting rock and roll. This show will leave you more than satisfied.

The Yard Dogs Road Show will be The Coach House in San Juan Capistrano on Thursday, December 30. Tickets can are $15 in advance, $18 day of show. DP —A.J. Bardzilowski 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

A T

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

BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT

Oasis Air Conditioning & Heating 949.420.1321 31648 Rancho Viejo Rd. Ste. A, www.oasisair.com

ARCHITECTURE - PLANNING

JUNK REMOVAL

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

Green Dump Truck www.greendumptruck.com

CHICK’S PLUMBING, INC. Proudly Serving South Orange County Since 1975

949.496.9731 www.chicks-plumbing.com

BEAUTY SALONS

Azalea Salon & Boutique 949.248.3406 Lic# 310654 24452 Del Prado Ave. Ste. A, www.azaleasalonandboutique.com Paragon Salon 949.489.1955 ELECTRICAL 34161 Pacific Coast Hwy. delta G electrical 949.360.9282 Salon Revelation - Dayna Dallas 949.248.8595 CA #657214, www.deltagelect.com 34192 Violet Lantern #2

BOOKKEEPER / ORGANIZER Accurate Bookeeping lisathebookkeeper@yahoo.com

EMAIL MARKETING

Concept2Design Marketing 949.412.5345 www.concept2design.net

949.276.6921

EMBROIDERY

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

CARPET CLEANING

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

949.248.1007

FITNESS PROGRAMS

Capistrano Beach Steam Clean 949.240.5875 Fit Club - Boot Camp 949.831.7984 www.steamcleaningdanapoint.com www.afitclub.com Jazzercise, O.C. Sailing & Events Center CATERING 34451 Ensenada Place, 949.492.7817 Smokey’s House of BBQ 949.388.8102 www.danapointjazz.com 32860 Pacific Coast Hwy. #4, www.SmokeysHouseofBBQ.com GIFT BASKETS

CHRISTIAN CHURCHES Christian Science Services 34102 La Plaza

949.661.3151

Organize/Simplify - Terri Hochman hochmans@cox.net

Under-Wraps Gift Baskets 949.291.0300 mariannedorsey@cox.net, www.giftbasketsbyunderwraps.com

HANDYMAN SERVICES

CLUTTER CONSULTANT 949.521.1632

Robert’s Professional Handyman Services Lic. # B853695 949.606.6425

HAIR SALONS

COFFEE SHOP

Monarch Bay Haircutters 949.496.1957 Coffee Importers Espresso Bar 949.493.7773 20 Monarch Bay Plaza 34531 Golden Lantern, www.coffeeimporters.com Paragon Salon 949.489.1955 34161 Pacific Coast Hwy. COMPUTER REPAIR & SERVICES Utopia Salon 949.661.1664 San Clemente Computer & Network Services Barry 949.661.1664 daniel@sanclementecomputer.com 949.276.1581 Gary 949.231.9755 Solution Tek-nologies 949.400.0080 Morgan 949.433.3960 www.solutiontek-nologies.com 24582 Del Prado, #B, www.barrysutopia.com

CONTRACTORS - GENERAL Creative Environments Construction 949.496.3728 Design & Build #464468

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

INSURANCE SERVICES

COSMETICS

Mary Kay Cosmetics & Career 949.248.2868 Patricia Powers 949.496.1900 Opportunities, Ind. Sales Director - Marline Adams, License#0737080, pat.powers@cox.net www.marykay.com/madams2 Statefarm/Elaine LaVine 949.240.8944 34080 Golden Lantern, www.elainelavine.net DENTISTS Ted Bowersox 949.661.3200 Dana Point Dental 949.661.5664 34085 Pacific Coast Hwy, Ste 204, 34080 Golden Lantern, Ste 201, www.statefarm.com www.danapointdental.com

INTERIOR DESIGN

DOG GROOMING Dawgy Style 34085 Pacific Coast Hwy, Ste. 112, www.todawgystyle.com

949.496.3315

SIGNS

JEWELER

Dana Point Jeweler 949.489.1165 ABC Signs & Embroidery Shop 24845 Del Prado, www.danapointjeweler.com 34135 Pacific Coast Hwy, Ste. E, www.abcembroideryshop.com

Maureen B. Fletcher Interior Design 714.889.9597 momofletcher@gmail.com Norma Mardian Interior Design 949.492.6271 www.nminteriordesign.com

949.697.4517

949.248.1007

SURF SHOPS

Girl in the Curl Surf Shop 949.661.4475 34116 Pacific Coast Hwy., www.girlinthecurl.com LANDSCAPING/SPRINKLERS Infinity Surfboards 949.661.6699 Sunburst Landscaping 949.632.0081 24382 Del Prado, www.infinitysurf.com www.sunlandscape.webs.com 949.493.3670 Jack’s Surfboards 949.276.8080 34320 Pacific Coast Hwy, www.jackssurfboards.com

LOCKSMITH

Dana Point Lock & Security www.danapointlock.com

949.496.6919

MUSIC INSTRUCTION

TUTORING English Tutoring by Susan 949.481.0481 Mathnasium 949.388.6555 32411 Golden Lantern, Ste. Q, www.mathnasium.com

Kenny’s Music & Guitars 949.661.3984 UPHOLSTERY 24731 La Plaza, www.kennysmusicstore.com Danman’s Music School 949.242.4431 Dana Point Upholstery 949.240.2292 24699 Del Prado, www.danmans.com 24402 Del Prado Jeddy’s Yacht & Home Interiors 949.240.9569 PET GROOMING 34118 Pacific Coast Hwy, www.jeddys.com Dawgy Style 949.496.3315 WINDOW CLEANING 34085 Pacific Coast Hwy #112, www.todawgystyle.com Bayside Window Cleaning 949.290.8230 www.baysidewindowcleaning.com PIZZA Wonderful Windows 949.369.7263 Beach Cities Pizza 949.496.0606 www.wonderfulwindows.com 34473 Golden Lantern St. WINDOW COVERINGS 34155 Pacific Coast Hwy. 949.496.2670 Jeddy’s Yacht & Home Interiors 949.240.9569 PLUMBING 34118 Pacific Coast Hwy, www.jeddys.com A to Z Leak Detection 949.499.4464 www.atozleakdetection.com Chick’s Plumbing 949.496.9731 www.chicks-plumbing.com Mission Plumbing & Heating 949.492.4303 www.missionplumbingandheating.com

PRESCHOOLS San Clemente Preschool 949.498.1025 163 Avenida Victoria, sanclementepreschool@gmail.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

REAL ESTATE - RESIDENTIAL Prudential California Realty, Shirley Tenger www.tengerteam.com 949.487.7700 J. Hill & Associates 949.488.7653 34270 Pacific Coast Hwy., Ste. A, www.hillrealty.org Lantern Bay Realty 949.661.6441 34179 Golden Lantern, Ste. 103, www.lanternbayrealty.com

LIST YOUR BUSINESS IN “LOCALS ONLY” This handy, cost-friendly, go-to reference tool keeps your business in front of potential customers 24/7.

GET YOUR BUSINESS LISTED TODAY.

RESTAURANTS Brio Tuscany Grille 949.443.1476 24050 Camino Del Avion, www.briorestaurant.com Jolly Roger Restaurant 949.496.0855 34661 Golden Lantern, www.aloharestaurants.com Smokey’s House of BBQ 949.388.8102 32860 Pacific Coast Hwy. #4, www.SmokeysHouseofBBQ.com

Call Angela Edwards at 949.682.1667 or e-mail aedwards@danapointtimes.com.

DP S a n C le m e n te

D a n a Po i nt

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Classifieds

Submit your ad online at www.danapointtimes.com

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

FOR RENT HOUSE FOR RENT IN LAKE ELSINORE 4 bed, 2 bath, 1472 sq ft., 3 car garage and space for RV or boat parking. Central heat and A/C. Nice size fenced yard, covered patio, great neighborhood.

One block from Lake, close to 74 HWY. Available immediately. $1,450/M 949.201.8551

HELP WANTED NOW HIRING 60-year-old San Clemente appliances & electronics co. hiring delivery and installation personnel. Clean driving record required. Good pay and benefits: Call Alex at 949-289-5794

HOME IMPROVEMENT SERVICE NOW REPAIRS AND REMODELS AVAILABLE 24/7 ANY LOCATION. ALL TYPES OF HOME AND APT REPAIRS AND REMODELS. COMBINED 45 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE. LICENSED AND BONDED. WE BUILD WHAT WE BID. 949201-5521. FREE ESTIMATES NOW. #581092

MISC. EDUCATION SERVICES IN-HOME TEACHER I am credentialed and have a Masters Degree in Education. I will develop lessons for students based on their current needs. I have 10 years experience in all grade levels and a high success rate with student grade improvement even with the most reluctant learner. Excellent references upon request.

Call 949-363-8414.

DP TIMES CLASSIFIEDS ARE ONLINE! Submit an ad or browse current listings at www.danapointtimes.com

PETS LABRADOODLE PUPPIES Minis Labradoodle Chocolate 661-345-4202

Do you want to reach 10,000+ people in the Dana Point area every week?

Then you need to be in the Dana Point Times. Call us today!

949.388.7700 ext. 102

www.danapointtimes.com

December 24–30, 2010 • Dana Point Times • Page 19

DP LIVING

4

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

DP

SUDOKU

by Myles Mellor Each Sudoku puzzle consists of a 9X9 grid that has been subdivided into nine smaller grids of 3X3 squares. To solve the puzzle, each row, column and box must contain each of the numbers 1 to 9. Puzzles come in three grades: easy, medium and difficult. Level: Medium Last week’s solution:

SOLUTION SOLUTION SOLUTION SOLUTION

D a n a Po i nt

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

And the Winners Are… Dana Point Harbor announces the winners of the 36th Annual Harbor Boat Parade of Lights

By Andrea Swayne Dana Point Times

W

et wintry weather did nothing to dampen the spirits of the participants at the wrap up of this year’s Dana Point Harbor Boat Parade of Lights on Saturday night. Perhaps the great weather on the first weekend—December 10 and 11—and positive word of mouth about this year’s entries provided the enthusiasm it took to get people to make their way to the harbor despite the cold and rain.

This year’s theme, “Jingle Bell Rock,” provided the platform for entrants to put on a great show for spectators who were not only treated to beautiful floating light displays but also rockin’ tunes and some very fun costumes and dancing from the boat crews.

There were numerous dancing Santas and even an Elvis sighting.

Over 95 boats participated in this—the 36th annual—Parade of Lights and after four nights of careful consideration by a different judging panel each night, the winners were announced on Sunday morning To see more photos, log on to www.danapointharbor.com and www.danapointtimes. com. Photos are also available for purchase at www.photoartbymichael.com. DP

RESULTS Judges’ Picks Best Crew Under 30’ #25 Dog on Boat, Jim and Chrystine Snow Best Crew Under 30’ Runner Up #20 Nauti Dogg, Dennis and Terri Pickar Best Crew 30’ Over #49 Jus Playn Around, Michael and Kay Camp Best Crew 30’ Over Runner Up #61 Maxwell, Tom Adamson Best Animation Under 30’ #114 Winchell Dinghy, the Winchell Family Best Animation Under 30’ Runner Up #20 Nauti Dog, Dennis and Terri Pickar Best Animation 30’ Over # 78 Easy Money, John & Crezlun Kossa Best Animation 30’ Over Runner Up #107 JTM, the Morales Family Trust

Best Use of Color Under 30’ #101 Rub N Tug, Shaun Flowers Best Use of Color Under 30’ Runner Up #54 Mer Sea, Chuck Gramlich Best Use of Color 30’ Over #73 Shannon Rose, Shaun Keating Best Use of Color 30’ Over Runner Up #53 Alcyone, Stephan Williams Best Use of Lights Under 30’ #66 Shaman, Tim and Rhonda Neely Best Use of Lights Under 30’ Runner Up #65 Loose Wire, Ron and Charlotte Kessy Best Use of Lights 30’ Over #107 JTM, the Morales Family Trust Best Use of Lights 30’ Over Runner Up #80 Nowhere Bar, Michael Grover Most Original Under 30’ # 113 Mare Azul, Jeff and Roz Powers Most Original Under 30’ Runner Up #11 Lady Lisa, Lisa Warner and Dave Plotnik Most Original 30’ Over #53 Alcyone, Stephan Williams Most Original 30’ Over Runner Up #18 Roller, Mike and Diane Hatcher Best Theme Under 30’ #2 Doheny Doll, Charles Micalizzi Best Theme Under 30’ Runner Up #93 Star Dream, Evelyn Uzzo Best Theme 30’ Over #106 Besame Mucho, Dan and Lynn Hannagan Best Theme 30’ Over Runner Up #107 JTM, the Morales Family Trust Best Sailboat Under 30’ #93 Star Dream, Evelyn Uzzo Best Sailboat Under 30’ Runner Up #54 Mer Sea, Chuck Gramlich Best Sailboat 30’ Over #106 Besame Mucho, Dan and Lynn Hannagan Best Sailboat 30’ Over Runner Up #53 Alcyone, Stephan Williams Best Powerboat Under 30’ #113 Mar Azul, Jeff and Roz Powers Best Powerboat Under 30’ Runner Up

Page 20 • Dana Point Times • December 24–30, 2010

Photo by Michael Abbinante/photoartbymichael.com

#101 Rub n Tug, Shaun Flowers Best Powerboat 30’ Over #57 Fins, Jon Segal Best Powerboat 30’ Over Runner Up #80 Nowhere Bar, Michael Grover

Chick’s Plumbing Flush Cup for Teamwork #13 Pirate – Art Wiechmann Dana Point Boater’s Association – Spirit Award #80 Nowhere Bar – Michael Grover

Yacht Club with Most Entries Dana Point Yacht Club

Chamber of Commerce – Best Crew #93 Star Dream – Evelyn Uzzo

Supervisor’s Cup Under 30’ #2 Doheny Doll, Charles Micalizzi

Coffee Importers – Latte Lights Cup #2 Doheny Doll – Chuck Micalizzi

Supervisor’s Cup 30’ Over #106 Besame Mucho, Dan and Lynn Hannagan

Dana Wharf Sportsfishing - Kids Cup #28 Dynamite – Thomas Tonini

Sponsors’ Award Winners White Pelican – Best New Entry Under 30’ #66 Shaman – Tim and Rhonda Neely Dream Catcher Yachts - Best New Entry Over 30’ #80 Nowhere Bar – Michael Grover The Woody Cup - Small Craft Under 30’ # 116 Cabo 21 – Gary Davis Carlos Mexican Restaurant Award - Best Santa #18 Roller – Mike and Diane Hatcher

Harbor Grill Dinghy Cup 1st Place – #114 Winchell Dinghy, Winchell Family; 2nd Place – #95 Furlough Daze, Doug Mack; 3rd Place – #64 Striper, Jerry Riggs Hennessey’s – Best Power Boat #101 Rub n Tug, Shaun Flowers Fish Bucket – Best Sailboat #54 Mer Sea, Chuck Gramlich Wind & Sea – Best in Parade # 106 Besame Mucho, Dan and Lynn Hannagan Sunset – Mayor’s Cup (Lisa Bartlett) #57 Fins, Jon Segal www.danapointtimes.com

SPORTS

5

& OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES & MORE

DP

5 BEST BETS BASKETBALL

BASKETBALL

HOCKEY

Heat vs. Lakers Staples Center Dec. 25, 2 p.m.

Suns vs. Clippers Staples Center Dec. 26, noon

Ducks vs. Kings Staples Center Dec. 26, 6 p.m.

LeBron, D-Wade and Chris Bosh head west with the rest of the Heat team in tow to take on the Lakers.

The Clippers host the Phoenix Suns at the Staples Center in a key Western Conference game. Info: www.nba.

Southern California’s ice hockey teams collide in a big game with bragging rights on the line.

Info: www.nba.com/lakers

Info: www.ducks.nhl.com

com/clippers

D a n a Po i nt

Dolphin Report SPORTS NEWS FROM DANA HILLS HIGH SCHOOL

By David Zimmerle

BOYS BASKETBALL • The Dolphins (5-6) did well at the Beckman Tournament December 14-18 winning four of five games played. The team tipped off the tourney with a 44-35 loss to Tustin on December 15, but went on to beat Valley Christian 6345, San Clemente 68-57 and host Beckman 51-40. In the win against Beckman, Jeremy Bass and Jared Moore each led with 14 points apiece, while Moore had a team high seven rebounds. The team then went on to play Huntington Beach at El Toro High School on December 22.

Next 7 days: Dec. 27-30 at Desert Heat Classic in Cathedral City, TBA GIRLS BASKETBALL • The Lady

Dolphins (4-4) played in the Oceanview Tournament December 13-18. The team started off the tourney with a 61-20 win against Westminster, beat Silverado 5544, were then shut down by Bonita but came back to beat La Serna 56-44 on December 18. In the win against La Serna, which was the consolation game, Kristi Nishihira led the team with 17 points while Haley Nordbak had 14 points in the game.

Next 7 days: N/A BOYS SOCCER • The Dolphins (1-4-1) were shut out on the road 3-0

by Edison on December 15. The team then went on to play Laguna Beach on

December 17.

Next 7 days: Dec. 27-3 at SOCC Tourney at El Toro, TBA GIRLS SOCCER • The Lady Dolphins (5-1-2) excelled at the Aliso Cup December 7-11 at Aliso Niguel High School beating Palos Verdes 2-1, edging Edison 1-0, shooting past upland 4-3 before losing to powerhouse Esperanza 3-2 in penalty kicks. In that crucial game, Esperanza scored in the first six minutes, but the Lady Dolphins came back and scored in the final four minutes off a header from Emma Gullickson and assisted by a throw in from Kaitlin Dickmann.

The team went on to defeat Mission Viejo 1-0 on December 14 before rolling past Newport Harbor 3-0 on December 17. The girls then played Trabuco Hills at home on December 21.

Next 7 days: Dec. 27-30 at Excalibur Tournament at Foothill High School, TBA

GIRLS SOCCER

BASKETBALL

Excalibur Tournament, Foothill High School Dec. 27, TBA

Highlanders vs.

Anteaters Bren Center Dec. 28, 7 p.m.

The Lady Dolphins get prepped to take on some of the best teams in the area as the girls compete in the Excalibur Tournament. Info: www.dhhs.net

The UC Irvine Anteaters will host the UC Riverside Highlanders in a key game at the Bren Center.

Info: www.ucirvinesports.com

GIRLS WATER POLO • The Lady Dolphins (10-4) played in the Villa Park Tournament December 9-11. The girls opened with a 13-11 loss to St. Lucy’s, but won out the rest of their games beating Vista Murrieta 7-2, edging Cathedral Catholic 9-7, cruising past M.L. King 10-7 and winning out against San Marcos 7-6.

The team then beat Northwood 9-7 December 14 before losing to powerhouse Edison at home by the final score of 13-8.

Dana Hills went on to face JSerra on the road December 21.

Next 7 days: N/A WRESTLING • Several Dolphin wrestlers competed at the TC Duals at Temescal Canyon December 10-11 and then the team faced El Toro in its first Sea View League dual of the season on December 14. Dana Hills then participated in The Bash at Mission Oak December 20-21.

Next 7 days: N/A

S C O R E B OA R D

JV SPOTLIGHT

SURFING

Dana Hills High School girls Junior Varsity water polo team with their third place trophy from the 12th Annual Western High School Junior Varsity Ladies Water Polo Tournament. Photo by Andrea Swayne

Dolphins Girls Junior Varsity Water Polo The girls Junior Varsity water polo team at Dana Hills High School brought home the third place trophy at the 12th Annual 2010 Western High School Junior Varsity Ladies Water Polo Tournament earlier this month.

Coach Paul Cruzan said he is very proud of the girls’ efforts at the tournament and the way they are playing as a team. Congratulations girls! —AS

Page 22 • Dana Point Times • December 24–30, 2010

WSA Gatorade Championship Tour Event No. 5 Dec. 4-5, Oceanside, South Jetty Local finishers only. MICRO GROM BOYS/GIRLS U9: 2. Trevor Mezak, San Juan Capistrano. MICRO GROM BOYS/GIRLS LB U9: 3. Eland Hansler, San Clemente. BOYS/GIRLS U10: 3. Crosby Colapinto, San Clemente. BOYS U14: 2. Griffin Colapinto, San Clemente; 3.

Davis Freud, Dana Point; 5. Corey Colapinto, San Clemente. BOYS U16: 1. Kevin Schulz, San Clemente; 5. Ethan Carlston, San Clemente; 6. Daniel Tieman, San Clemente. BOYS U18: 4.

Ian Simmons, San Clemente. GIRLS U14: 2. Tia Blanco, San Clemente. GIRLS U16: 1. LuLu Erkeneff, Dana Point; 2. Kulia Doherty, San Clemente; 5. Tia Blanco, San Clemente; 6. Bleu Archbold, Dana Point. GIRLS U18: 1. Kulia Doherty, San Clemente; 4. Lani Doherty, San Clemente. BOYS LB U14: 1. Noah Atwood, Capistrano Beach; 2. Mason Shaw, Capistrano Beach; 3. Jacob Atwood, Capistrano Beach; 4. Rio Donaldson, Capistrano Beach; 5. Michael Tilly, Capistrano Beach; 6. Ethan Mudge, Capistrano Beach. JR. LONGBOARD U18: 4. Matthew Elias-Calles, San Clemente; 5. Dylan Cox, Capistrano Beach. GIRLS LONGBOARD U14: 1.

Rachael Tilly, Capistrano Beach; 2. Tia Blanco, San Clemente. GIRLS LB U18: 1. Rachael Tilly, Capistrano Beach; 2. Tory Gilkerson, San Clemente; 3. LuLu Erkeneff, Dana Point; 4. Karina Rozunko, San Clemente; 6. Emmy Lombard, San Clemente. MEN 18-29: 1. Ricky Lovato, San Clemente; 3. Levi Gregory, San Clemente. LEGENDS 50+: 2. Kyle Twitchell, San Clemente.

OPEN WOMEN: 6. Madi Swayne, San Clemente. OPEN MEN LB: 3. Rick Ekstein, Dana Point.

WOMEN’S LB 18+: 1. Sheri Crummer, San Clemente.

Volcom Qualifying Series, Seaslug Series, LA County Dec. 4, Manhattan Beach, El Porto First place and local finishers only. PRO/AM: 1. Bobby Okvist, Newport Beach, $500.

JUNIORS: 1. Kelly Zaun, Manhattan Beach, $250; 2. Scott Weinhardt, Dana Point; 4. Logan Laubach, San Clemente. GROMS: 1. Jake Marshall, Encinitas; 3. Josh Benjoya, Dana Point.

SQUIDS: 1. Nicholas Marshall, Encinitas. GIRLS: 1. Natalie Anzivino, South Bay; 2. Kulia Doherty, San Clemente; 3. Lani Doherty, San Clemente.

We want to run your scores, results and announcements in “Scoreboard.”

E-mail sports@danapointtimes.com by each Monday at 5 p.m. www.danapointtimes.com