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VOLUME 4, ISSUE 9

Festival of Whales: 40 Years of Fun

Dana Point has been a whale watcher’s paradise since the harbor opened four decades ago E Y E O N D P/ PAG E 4

The Dana Pride, a vessel operated by Dana Wharf Sportﬁshing and Whale Watching, sets out for a day of whale watching off the coast of Dana Point. Dana Wharf is the company credited with originating whale watching out of the Dana Point Harbor. They are also celebrating their 40th anniversary this year. Photo by Andrea Swayne

www.danapointtimes.com

City Wins Two Legal Victories Over Marijuana Dispensaries

Homeless Shelter Asks City to Increase 10-Bed Limit

INSIDE: Festival of Whales Coloring Contest

EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

EYE ON DP/PAGE 5

Eye on DP

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

City and Business Calendar Saturday, March 5 Festival of Whales Parade 10 a.m. This year’s theme: 40 Years of Magical Migration. The parade route runs south on Pacific Coast Highway from Selva Road to Golden Lantern. For more information see www.festivalofwhales.com.

Sunday, March 6 Festival of Whales Movie in the Park 6:30 p.m. A free showing of the movie Shark Tale (rated PG) will be presented at Baby Beach in the harbor. Free popcorn will be served and other refreshments will be available for purchase. Bring lawn chairs, blanket, picnic, etc.

D a n a Po i nt

Prior to the movie, the Dana Point Historical Society will show a trailer of their upcoming film Dana Point: Your Destination, featuring community activities and personal interviews promoting our five-star city. For more information, call 949.248.3530 or email smurphy@ danapoint.org. Rotary Club Diamond Dig and Whale of a BBQ Diamond Dig runs noon1 p.m. and BBQ noon-4 p.m. Join Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary in a beach treasure hunt. For $10 per shovel participants can dig for buried treasure at Baby Beach. Dress as a pirate and get a head start! After all that digging, whet your appetite with a delicious BBQ feast. All proceeds benefit children’s

charities. For more information, log on to www.monarchbeachrotary.com.

Monday, March 7 Senior Bingo 12:15 p.m. Monday and Wednesday at the Dana Point Community/Senior Center, 34052 Del Obispo Street, 949.248.3536, www.danapoint.org

Thursday, March 10 Coastmasters 7 a.m. the Coastmasters of Dana Point (a Toastmasters affiliate) meets every Thursday at the Jolly Roger Restaurant, 34661 Golden Lantern, 949.496.9610, www.coastmasters.org

D A N A P O I N T ’ s T op 5 H ott e s t T opi c s

What’s Up With... 1

…Two Legal Victories for City in Marijuana Battles?

THE LATEST: The city of Dana Point has won two legal victories in Orange County Superior Court in nuisance lawsuits filed against medical marijuana dispensaries. In the lawsuits the city maintained the collectives have been operating outside of the California Compassionate Use Act laws and illegally selling pot for profit. On February 24 Judge Jamoa Moberly ruled in favor of the city on a year-old lawsuit filed against the Point Alternative Care medical marijuana collective. On Tuesday, Judge William Monroe declared the city the winner in a suit it brought against Beach Cities Collective. These decisions prohibit the collectives from re-opening and allow the city to sue for civil damages, including legal fees. A third suit against Holistic Health is pending. Both cases were decided by summary judgment, meaning that the judge ruled without a trial. The nuisance suit victories come on the heels of the city’s closure of the three of six dispensaries remaining in Dana Point. All three were red-tagged and closed January 24 for municipal code violations. Beach Cities Collective and Holistic Health dispensaries were in the process of trying to correct code violations and reapply for certificates of occupancy following an unsuccessful attempt at appealing the closures. Point Alternative Care chose not to participate in the appeal of the red-tag closures. Earlier that same week, Orange County Sheriff’s Deputies served a search warrant on the collective as part of their own criminal investigation, said Munoz. Attempts to learn the details on the OCSD’s findings during that raid have been unsuccessful. WHAT’S NEXT: City Attorney Patrick Munoz said the city will seek $2,500 per day for Dana Point Times March 4–10, 2011

each day the businesses operated illegally. That amounts to $1.9 million in the case of Point Alternative Care and more than $2 million in the case of Beach Cities Collective. At the February 28 City Council meeting, Munoz said the city intends to aggressively pursue these damages to recoup the nearly $400,000 in legal fees spent in the year-and-a-half battle between the city and the dispensaries. Beach Cities Collective co-founder David Lambert called the nuisance cases, “ridiculous” and said he would appeal. FIND OUT MORE: Log on to www.danapointtimes.com. —Andrea Swayne

…More Solar Panels?

THE LATEST: The city decided to harness more solar power by adding a second, 4.9kilowatt system at the Community Center for $44,045. The additional panels, approved at the council meeting February 28, are expected to increase energy output and save Dana Point in utility costs, according to the staff report. The project will be paid for with $25,171 in energy rebates from nonprofit California Center for Sustainable Energy and $22,028 in federal energy grant funds established in the 2009 stimulus package. The city selected Candelaria Electric to perform the work. The San Clemente company completed the first phase of work at the Community Center and the Nature Interpretive Center. WHAT’S NEXT: The project is slated for completion before the end of the fiscal year. FIND OUT MORE: See the staff report at www.danapoint.org. —Stacie N. Galang

…Higher Bed Limit for Homeless Shelter?

THE LATEST: At Monday night’s City Council meeting, Calvary Chapel representatives, volunteers and members of Dana Point’s homeless community asked the council to raise the city’s 10-bed limit for homeless shelters operated by churches. “We have a problem in this city,” shelter volunteer and Dana Point resident Curtis Lund said, announcing the church has closed the shelter early this year due to the limitations the city’s Housing Element imposes on emergency housing for homeless in Dana Point as well as increased police surveillance to ensure the limit not be exceeded. Lund said the average night’s numbers at the shelter during this year’s winter were roughly 45 people per night. He said those numbers were far below the Laguna Beach shelter’s 65. The cold-weather emergency shelter is in its second year of operation and this year’s closure comes a full month earlier than last year. The shelter was open from November through March. WHAT’S NEXT: Shelter volunteers contacted the American Civil Liberties Union about the 10-person limit. Although the rule is approved by the state, the ACLU asked the city to stop enforcing it until they can meet with city officials to discuss the issue. City Attorney Patrick Munoz said that the city will likely have a meeting with the American Civil Liberties Union to discuss the issue. FIND OUT MORE: Stay tuned. —AS

…Storm Damage Bills Top $600,000?

THE LATEST: Dana Point will spend more Page 3

than $600,000 in the wake of December’s fierce rainstorms, which created more than 35 situations that needed cleanup or repair, according to city staff. The City Council on Monday approved waiving normal bid requirements for the work, most of which was completed even as the rain continued to pound Dana Point. The incidents ranged from trees down— which cost about $700 each to remove—to flooding and mud in the City Hall parking structure. The largest incidents involved roads and mudslides. WHAT’S NEXT: The total for the damages was $606,650. The city is applying to the Federal Emergency Management Agency and Federal Highway Administration in hopes of recovering an estimated $300,000. FIND OUT MORE: See the staff report, with a list of all of the incidents, at www.danapointtimes.com. —Jonathan Volzke

…Boat Runs Aground at Doheny?

THE LATEST: High winds on Saturday pushed the 44-foot Sea Ray power boat Kabuki on to the sand at Doheny Beach. Doheny State Park Rangers and the Coast Guard responded. Wind was most likely to blame for breaking the boat free and pushing it ashore. Reports had the wind clocked at a sustained 25 knots. The boat’s hull was not breached and there were no passengers aboard at the time. WHAT’S NEXT: The owner hired a private service to tow the boat back out to sea—an operation that was supervised by the Coast Guard. FIND OUT MORE: Log on to www.danapointtimes.com to see photos. —AS www.danapointtimes.com

Eye on DP

Festival of Whales: 40 Years of Fun Dana Point has been a whale watcher’s paradise since the harbor opened four decades ago By Andrea Swayne Dana Point Times

or hundreds, possibly thousands of years, Dana Point has served as a landmark for migrating gray whales as they journey each year between their cold Arctic feeding grounds in the north and their warm water breeding and calving lagoons in Baja. As the whales pass by our shores each spring on their southern journey, the city has celebrated their return to our waters annually for 40 years—quite a chunk of time from our perspective, but only a snippet in the grand scheme of time and history...and whales. But a lot can happen in 40 years. For Dana Point, the span of four decades has brought with it a bustling harbor and the reputation as one of the best places on the West Coast—and arguably in the world— for viewing majestic gray whales in their natural environment. This year’s Festival of Whales celebrates the milestone with a bigger and betterthan-ever schedule of events during the two-weekend affair. Running Saturdays and Sundays, March 5, 6, 12 and 13, the 40th Annual Dana Point Festival of Whales offers fun by land and by sea for every member of the family. The festival program, published in last week’s Dana Point Times, is chock-full of both fun and educational opportunities to get up close and personal with the magnificent creatures who have chosen Dana Point as a landmark along their yearly migration route and many of the activities are free. Free shuttle service will be available every day of the Festival from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to help you get around town. Misplaced your copy? Don’t worry, plenty of programs will be available at all Festival events, or to plan your visit in advance, log on to www. danapointtimes.com and download a copy. The Festival begins with a parade at 10 a.m. that runs south on Pacific Coast Highway from Selva Road to Golden Lantern followed by the Chamber of Commerce Whale of a Block Party at La Plaza Park and the kick-off of events at the harbor. From whale watching to people watching there’s something for every taste. Try your hand at stand-up paddling, watch a free outdoor movie or concert, dig for buried treasure at the Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary’s Diamond Dig, check out hot rods and woodie cars, run a 10K, 5K or kids run at the Grunion Run foot race or visit the Ocean Institute, Ocean Awareness Day booths or Marine Mammal Lectures to learn more about the ocean and its creatures. Whatever your interests, there’s so much to see and do, you’ll be glad the Festival runs for two weekends. Read on, for highlights of some of the other anniversary celebrations, and new additions to the Festival of Whales.

Dana Point Times March 4–10, 2011

An excited group of whale watchers set out on the Dana Wharf Sportfishing and Whale Watching vessel Dana Pride in search of a close encounter with migrating whales. Dana Wharf originated whale watching out of the, then newly opened, Dana Point Harbor 40 years ago. Photo by Andrea Swayne

1971, even before all the buildings were built, Dana Wharf put the city on the map as a great place to be to see whales in their natural Southern California environment. And although, that first year, the Festival of Whales was a yet unnamed and informal celebration of the annual migration of the huge marine mammals, so began the 40-year tradition of celebrating the big grays’ return to Dana Point. The most satisfying thing about having kicked off whale watching in our area, for Hansen, was the fact that his company’s educating people about the whales and their suffering numbers played a large part in getting the whales listed on the Federal Endangered Species list and contributed to the rebound in population, he said. Dana Wharf will host their official birthday celebration in May.

40 YEARS OF WHALE WATCHING

Dana Wharf debuts a new logo to commemorate 40 years of business at the OC Dana Point Harbor. Courtesy of Dana Wharf

How did Dana Point come to be the home of such a longstanding tradition? It all began in the early 1960s when Don Hansen’s small sportfishing company operating off of the San Clemente Pier began taking high school students whale watching. As the harbor was nearing completion and ready to open in 1971, Hansen made the move to the new Dana Point Harbor. Their move, operating out of a trailer in the middle of the harbor construction zone, was where the Dana Point tradition of whale watching began. With the creation of Dana Wharf Sportfishing and Whale Watching—the originators of whale watching trips out of the harbor—Dana Point began earning its reputation as a whale watcher’s paradise. When the harbor officially opened in

CAPT. DAVE DEBUTS NEW BOOK On Sunday March 6 at 1 p.m. at the Dana Point Marina Inn, Capt. Dave Anderson will present a live reading and visual presentation of his soon-to-be released family book Tales from the Pod: Lily The Whale. His book was inspired by his involvement in trying to help save Lily, a 26-foot gray whale that came into Dana Point Harbor last May entangled in a gillnet. The story is a sort of natural history meets supernatural fable chronicling the life of the lead character Lily the Whale. The book is illustrated with whale watching photographs taken by Anderson over a 15-year period as well as photos that were taken by news media, including the Dana Point Times, during the real Lily’s time in

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Captain Dave Anderson of Capt. Dave’s Dolphin and Whale Safari will debut his new book inspired by his up close and personal experience last year with a young gray whale called Lily. Lily’s sad story made headlines worldwide when she spent her final days at the harbor after being set free from nets and rope that were entangling her.

the harbor. The tale follows the character Lily from her birth to her disentanglement to her alleged demise. Stop by this free program to meet Capt. Dave and see some of the actual netting he and other members of the disentanglement team removed from the real Lily. He will also be demonstrating some of the special tools used to cut away netting from entangled whales.

RESTAURANT WEEK For the first time ever during the Festival, some of the best restaurants in Dana Point will be participating in Dana Point Restaurant Week from March 4 through 13. Take a break from the festivities to relax and refuel at the fantastic participating eateries. Diners will be treated to special Restaurant Week pricing in celebration of the 40th anniversary of the Festival. A full list of participants and their specials can be found online at www.festivalof whales.com. DP www.danapointtimes.com

2011 Festival of Whales Coloring Contest

Every child who enters

WINS one

FREE

Whale Watching or Fishing Ticket GRAND PRIZE Let the seagulls sing you to sleep… with a one-night beach get-a-way for a family of four, at the newly-renovated Doubletree Guest Suites Doheny Beach. A warm Doubletree chocolate chip cookie at check-in is the hotel’s promise of a warm and caring experience. IN ADDITION, Breakfast for four at Proud Mary’s in the Dana Point Harbor! And a whale watching trip for four from Dana Wharf Sport ﬁshing!

www.danawharf.com

COURTESY OF DANA WHARF SPORTFISHING AND WHALE WATCHING

DANAWHARF.COM

for kids 9 & under

ALL ENTRIES MUST BE RECEIVED NO LATER THAN MARCH 4, 2011 *No photo copies will be entered.* Mail completed entry form & coloring page to: Dana Wharf Sportﬁshing, 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, CA 92629 Contestant’s Name Address

Age

Parent/Legal Guardian I would like to recieve a child’s

Phone Fishing Ticket

Whale Watching Ticket

PLEASE CHECK ONE

Contest is open to all children ages 9 and under. All entries must be received by March 6, 2011 for judging. Dana Point Times, San Clemente Times, The Capistrano Dispatch and Dana Wharf Sportfishing assume no responsibility for lost or late entries. All completed entries will receive one child’s whale watching ticket or child’s fishing ticket, compliments of Dana Wharf Sportfishing, mailed to the address on the contest entry. We do not accept the tickets on any group outing, and no copies are valid. The grand prize winner will be contacted by telephone. Some entries will be displayed around Dana Point Harbor during the 2011 Festival of Whales. The Grand Prize entry will be displayed at Dana Wharf Sportfishing. Contest entries will become the property of Dana Wharf Sportf ishing and cannot be returned. Employees of Picket Fence Media, Dana Wharf Sportfishing and their families are not eligible to win. All winne rs are responsible for taxes and applicable fees. All parents/legal guardians of the winners will be required to verify identity through a sign ed affidavit, social security number and valid driver’s license. Contest void where prohibited. Entry into this contest will serve as entrant’s a greement of the above contest rules.

Eye on DP

News Next Door

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

Victims of Landslide, Neighbors File Suit “Disappointed” was the word Shorecliffs Golf Course Manager Joseph Leicht used to describe the lawsuit against his company. Eleven homeowners affected by recent landslides filed a lawsuit February 16 seeking more than $10 million in damages from Shorecliffs Golf Course while also making a claim of up to $15 million from the City of San Clemente. The lawsuit, filed in Orange County Superior Court, includes the four Via Ballena homeowners whose property was “red tagged” in January as well as other homeowners along the street. Attorney Serge Tomassian, who represents the homeowners, said in a press release the golf course’s parent company LHC Investments was named because it owns a “substantial portion” of the slope behind the affected Via Ballena homes and did not properly maintain the area to “support and protect” the homes. He also claims the golf course enlarged and failed to control the water flow of the Cascadita Chan-

DP Sheriff’s Blotter Compiled By JONATHAN VOLZKE 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.

Monday, February 28 DISTURBANCE Doheny Park Road, 34000 Block (11:14 p.m.) Two women were in an argument. One of them called deputies to report her friend was “out of control.” She took off, and her boyfriend picked her up. RECKLESS DRIVING La Plaza, 34100 Block (9:41 p.m.) Somebody was shooting some sort of movie in an alley, and racing a car up and down the narrow passage. SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMSTANCES Danabirch, 25100 Block (8:02 p.m.) Two or Dana Point Times March 4–10, 2011

nel, which lies at the bottom of the canyon between the houses and the greens. Not only did the golf course’s actions damage the homes, but also devalued them, the lawsuit said. “Ultimately, the cause of any landslide is water,” said Leicht, who had not seen the lawsuit. “Certainly, the water didn’t come from the golf course. The water was predominantly rainfall.” The course does have an attorney but legal counsel hasn’t weighed in yet, he said. In addition to damages, the homeowners are seeking repair of the collapsed hillside. “The hillside is still moving and heavy rainfall may cause more damaging landslides and further endanger the remaining homes and adjoining slopes in the Shorecliffs area,” Tomassian said. The lawsuit seeks compensatory damages, investigation fees, prejudgment interest, damages for lost home value, the loss of enjoyment of the property, emotional distress, repairs, legal costs and other related costs. The attorney also made a claim against the city of between $10 million and $15 million for the damage to the houses and the property. If the city rejects the homeowners’ claim, Tomassian expects to go three people were moving things out of a house, and the owner wasn’t there. DISTURBANCE La Serena Drive, 34100 Block (6:04 p.m.) A woman reported her ex-boyfriend was throwing and breaking things. A woman on the same block called from a friend’s house earlier to report she had broken up with her boyfriend and he was texting her threatening statements. UNKNOWN TROUBLE Camino El Molino, 34400 Block (4:14 p.m.) A caller reported what sounded like a fight at a rehab home nearby. One of those involved was taken to a hospital for a psychiatric hold. CITIZEN ASSIST Pointe Stirling, 32800 Block (2:48 p.m.) A man reported his “female friend” was at his house earlier when her husband came over and pushed his way inside. WELFARE CHECK Del Prado/Street of the Golden Lantern (1:57 p.m.) A caller reported a woman carrying a baby while screaming for help. The caller heard the woman say something to the effect she was locked out of her apartment. SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMSTANCES Pacific Coast Highway/Del Obispo Street (12:03 p.m.) A caller working at a

Connor O’Modhrain, Michael Perryman and Ari Uzo-Okereke with their families after signing their letters of intent. Photo by Jonathan Volzke

forward with litigation against the city. Tomassian also represents a group of Via Ballena homeowners from a 2006 landslide. Their lawsuit was filed against the city in 2008 and is still in litigation. —Stacie N. Galang SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

Five Stallions Receive Athletic Scholarships The seniors at San Juan Hills High School are used to blazing new trails. They were the first students when the school opened four years ago, the first to sing the Stallion fight song, the first to compete in athletics. strawberry stand reported a man and woman were across the street, drinking alcohol and watching everything happening at the berry stand. Sunday, February 27 WELFARE CHECK Vista Azul, 27300 Block (9:24 p.m.) A man called deputies because he was trying to find his son. He called the cellular phone number he had for the young man, but someone else answered it and said it was their number. Deputies went to the young man’s home, found him and advised him to call dad. SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMSTANCES Zarzito Drive, 33800 Block (5:12 p.m.) Someone complained about a man going through their trash cans. ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY Pacific Coast Highway, 34000 Block (1:37 p.m.) A bogus $100 bill was passed at a sandwich shop. DISTURBANCE El Encanto Avenue/La Cresta Drive (12:22 p.m.) A man and woman were arguing. He had the hood up on a vehicle, trying to remove the sparkplugs. He told deputies the woman wouldn’t leave. DISTURBANCE Camino Capistrano, 34500 Block

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And now, five seniors have become the first to receive athletic scholarships. The school marked the occasion with a February 2 ceremony. From the football squad, Michael Perryman will go to Montana State, Ari UzoOkereke will go to the Air Force Academy and Connor O’Modhrain is headed to Wingate University. From the Stallion golf squad, brothers Eric and Owen Taylor are going to Sacramento State. “It’s a great thing that we’re able to start a lot of traditions, and it means a lot for the community to see that we’re like all the other schools in our district and South Orange County, sending athletes to college on scholarships,” Athletic Director Armando Gonzalez said. —Jonathan Volzke (10:18 a.m.) A dispute broke out over a carsale deal. Deputies ended up towing the car. DISTURBANCE Pacific Coast Highway/Del Obispo Street (9:33 a.m.) A process server served court papers on a woman. Her boyfriend became upset and allegedly hit the process server with a vehicle as they drove off. The paperwork was a domestic restraining order. SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMSTANCES Doheny Park Road, 34200 Block (1:13 a.m.) A woman reported two other women tried to steal her purse, twice, and then left in a silver Infinity. Deputies were also notified of a possible fight behind the watering hole. DISTURBANCE Crown Valley Parkway, 32400 Block (12:13 a.m.) A woman reported her ex-husband was starting arguments and threatening her. He might have been drinking. They both live in the same home. DEATH INVESTIGATION Vista Sole Street, 0 Block (4:13 p.m.) Authorities discovered a woman’s body in her home. Her sister had the woman’s child and vehicle. Foul play was not suspected. ROBBERY Silver Lantern, 33800 Block (4:06 p.m.) A 9-year-old girl was in front of her home when three teens took her cell phone. Two were last seen on scooters. www.danapointtimes.com

Eye on DP

News Bites

Camp Pendleton Marines to Teach Women’s Self-Defense

Compiled by Andrea Swayne

P rops , R ecognitions and M orsels of I nfo Mayor Schoeffel to Deliver State of the City Address, Sponsorships Available u The Dana Point Chamber in partnership

with Mayor Scott Schoeffel, City Council Members and the City of Dana Point, will present the State of the City Address and Luncheon on Thursday, April 21 at the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa. Platinum, Gold, Silver and Bronze Sponsorships are now available and include preferred seating at the event along with varying levels of recognition at the event and in pre-event promotions. If your business or organization is interested in sponsorship, please contact the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce at 949.496.1555 or email kstraine@ danapointchamber.com. More information can be found online at www.danapointchamber.com.

Dana Point Residents to Dance and Sing to Raise Funds for CHOC

Dee Hamann, Daneen Pysz. Courtesy photo u Dana Point resident Daneen Pysz and Dee

Hamann of Monarch Beach will join nearly 100 prominent business, civic and society leaders from all over Orange County onstage during CHOC Follies XIV: A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Follies, a charity musical event benefiting Children’s Hospital of Orange County. The event runs March 31, April 1 at 8 p.m. and April 2 at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. at the Robert B. Moore Theatre, Orange Coast College, 2701 Fairview Road in Costa Mesa. Tickets are $35 to $125. Pysz is a personal fitness trainer specializing in nutrition and weight training. Her company I Make It Digital provides customized DVDs and CDs, including converting video tapes to DVD and vinyl records to CDs. She is an alto singer with South Coast Singers and this is her first year with CHOC Follies. Hamann, originally from Long Island, lives in Monarch Beach with her husband and teenage sons, Dean and Douglas. Actively involved in tap-dancing classes, Dee is looking forward to showing off her talents in the CHOC Follies for her sixth year. Proceeds from this year’s Follies will support a radiology waiting room at CHOC’s new Dana Point Times March 4–10, 2011

u The Dana Point 5th Marine Regiment

patient care tower. “What began as a simple idea to attract new supporters to the hospital has developed over the past 13 years into one of Orange County’s most anticipated and successful charity events,” said Executive Producer Gloria Zigner. The annual event has raised over $5 million since its inception in 1998. For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit www.chocfollies.org or call 715.532.8690. For more information about CHOC, visit www.choc.org.

Boys & Girls Club Installs New Officers u The Boys & Girls Club of the South Coast

Area celebrated its installation of officers and annual meeting at the Dana Point Yacht Club January 29. “This past year and our many accomplishments is a testament to the board’s caring dedication in giving of their time and talent to the Boys & Girls Club of the South Coast Area,” said Executive Director Kent Campbell. “We are extremely grateful.” The newly elected officers for 2011 are Scott Dahl, president; Bob Adams, first vice president; Gus Gialamas, second vice president; Mike Garza, treasurer; Justin Scopaz, secretary and Mike Burke, immediate past president. The club also welcomed five new members to their board: Margaret Campbell, Tony May, Tom McCool, Eric Johnson and Larry Rannals. In addition to the club’s daily programs, kids in San Clemente, Dana Point and surrounding areas can join the club’s upcoming Indoor Soccer League, which runs from March 25 to June 18. Sign-ups for the league will be held at the club on February 26 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, visit www.BeGreatSanClemente.org.

Support Group is offering an exclusive three-hour women’s self-defense course taught by Marines at Camp Pendleton on March 12 from 9 a.m. to noon. Space is limited to 30 women, ages 13 and over (minors must be accompanied by an adult), and at a price of $50, it’s expected to fill up quickly. Upon demand, a second session will be offered from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. the same day. To reserve a spot, send a completed application, waiver form and a $50 check made payable to: Dana Point 5th Marine Regiment Support Group, 30011 Ivy Glen Drive #206, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677. Checks and paperwork must be received by March 11. Forms can be found online at www.danapoint5thmarines.com. Proceeds will go to purchase equipment for the 5th Marine Regiment Martial Arts Training Facility at Camp Pendleton. For more information, contact Terry Rifkin at 949.495.5007, terry@terryrifkin.com or Patty Vogan at 949.370.7564, pvogan@ victorycoaching.com.

The fundraiser is set for March 5 at 927 Calle Negocio, Suites C and D, San Clemente. CrossFit Orange County will be holding “Fran vs. Leukemia” workout. All participants will receive workout coaching—tailored to ability—and a T-shirt for a $35 donation. Stop by between 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. to try the workout. The fundraiser will help the family with their medical costs and give others the opportunity to join the national registry. To learn about the fundraiser, email robinhughes@cox.net or call 760.473.1058. For registry info, email ginac@bahbad.org or call 949.842.9975.

Foster Pups Looking for a Home

Family, Charity Work to Raise Awareness of Bone Marrow Transplants u The Harhay Family, Be a Hero Become

a Donor Foundation and CrossFit Orange County will be hosting a “Be the Match” Marrow Registry to provide hope to patients like 2005 Dana Hills High graduate Lyndsey Harhay who need a lifesaving bone marrow transplant. Lindsey was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia and is being treated at UCLA Medical Center. Her father Tom Harhay recently retired as an Orange County Fire Association captain and spent many years at Station 60 in San Clemente. With about 10,000 patients in need every year, Lyndsey is among the 70 percent who do not have a sibling match.

Prince and Queen. Photo by Andrea Swayne u Prince (black and white) and his mother

Queen are being fostered at Camp Bow Wow Doggy Day and Overnight Camp, 220 Calle Pintoresco in San Clemente, and are available for viewing while they wait to be adopted from A Wish for Animals animal rescue shelter. Call Camp Bow Wow at 949.218.7387 to make an appointment to meet this adorable duo. The pair has a very strong bond and will need to be adopted together. Queen is about 4 years old and Prince is 3. They are both friendly and do well with children. For more information on A Wish for Animals’ adoption policy, log on to www. awishforanimals.org, contact them at awishforanimals@yahoo.com or call Toni Eakes at 310.525.0339.

Have something interesting for the community?

New Boys & Girls Club board members Tom McCool, Larry Rannals, Eric Johnson and Margaret Campbell are installed. Not pictured: Tony May. Courtesy photo Page 7

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

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Andrea Swayne, 949.388.7700, x113 aswayne@danapointtimes.com ADVERTISING

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HOW TO REACH US

Dana Point Times, Vol. 4, Issue 9. 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 2011. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

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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

EDITORIAL Group Editor, Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Jonathan Volzke City Editor, DP Times > Andrea Swayne City Editor, SC Times > Stacie N. Galang ART/DESIGN Senior Designer > Jasmine Smith Graphic Designer > Heidi Mefferd

ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING

Business Operations Manager > Alyssa Garrett

Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes

Distribution Manager > Andrea Swayne

> Michele Reddick (San Clemente)

INTERNS Madi Swayne

> Sergio Sanchez (San Juan Capistrano)

SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller, George Mackin, Rebecca Nordquist

Sales Associate > Angela Edwards > Buddy Purel OPERATIONS Finance Director > Mike Reed

Letters to the Editor SETTING THE RECORD STRAIGHT HALF-BAKED FACTS AND HALFBAKED TRUTHS BY DAVID LAMBERT, Capistrano Beach and TIM LOUCH, San Juan Capistrano

We as the founders of Beach Cities Collective have quietly tried to open a dialog with the city if, for nothing else, to allow the public the right to comment and or vote for or against medical marijuana dispensaries in the city. But the half-baked truths and a propensity for convoluted misinformation has gone too far. Here are few examples and the truth. At numerous times, City Attorney Munoz explained to the media that in Los Angeles and in Orange County, they have been working with their District Attorneys to determine whether medical marijuana dispensaries are operating lawfully. He explained, “What we’re seeing in the law enforcement world is that people are just selling pot out of storefronts. Their primary customers are 18-19 year olds who buy a pound a day. They need to get a prescription. You will find a parade of kids who want to grab what they need. That’s a common theme we’re seeing—them spreading it around. It’s a retail use and not permitted by the medical marijuana act. Storefronts are just popping up all over the place.” We allow no members less than 21 years of age. State law and Attorney General Guidelines clearly prohibit redistribution. The maximum quantity a member may receive weekly is an ounce, never a pound. In all due respect to the city attorney and the local police there has NEVER been a reported incident at BCC’s location regarding a teenager gaining access much less procuring a pound, or any nuisance activity. Munoz has also been quoted as saying that the markup on medical marijuana is in the neighborhood of 15,000 percent. “What’s going on is, someone’s out there growing marijuana for about $60 per pound and then they’re selling it to a middle man for about $5000 a pound and then selling it to the residents, including high school kids, Dana Point Times March 4–10, 2011

CONTRIBUTORS Tawnee Prazak, Christina Scannapiego, David Zimmerle

ONLINE POLL

in Dana Point for abut $9,000 a pound,” said Munoz. We are amused by the city attorney’s economic critique about the profits to be made at the dispensary level and if one accepts this half-baked “fact” then one might begin to think that the lure for criminal enterprise is strong. On the contrary. First, a few important facts: The cannabis available at quality dispensaries is nothing like what is available illegally on the street. Such poor quality could be harmful to the very ill. Because of this, care needs to be taken to assure the medicine is free of any impurities, chemicals, pesticides or insects. This essentially precludes the use of cannabis grown outdoors for the obvious reasons. The cost to grow a small indoor crop of sufficient quality (not quantity necessarily) requires considerable time, knowledge and physical and financial resources. The result of which would substantially increase the true cost of goods. And, let’s remember that in order to provide its members with the safest medicine lab tests are used to determine strength and for detection of impurities. Those member/patients who are providing medicine back to the collectives are carefully advised as to the success or failures they may be experiencing. And, if the quality and purity does not meet the levels demanded, the crop is rejected. If there is any excess revenue from the exchange/donation model the overages are returned to members by lowering the donation amount and providing a more extensive line of related items. Remember, these are nonprofit mutual benefit corporations. What about the markup for other drugs like Xanax? The consumer price per 100 brand name “Xanax 1mg” is $136.79. The cost of the general active ingredients per 100 tab/cap is $0.024. The percentage of markup is 569,958 percent. Source: AARP So, if an exorbitant markup is a ruler

for criminality, why is a 569,958 percent markup okay while a half-baked guess of 150,000 percent is criminal? We are not expecting any change in the city’s effort to ban medical marijuana due to the city council’s unwillingness to open the issue to the residents. All we have ever asked for was an open forum with the city and our fellow residents to at least state our case. Then, if the residents still wish to not accommodate their ill neighbors, so be it. We are also reminded by what Benjamin Franklin wrote: “Those who govern, having much business on their hands, do not generally like to take the trouble of considering and carrying into execution new projects. The best public measures are therefore seldom adopted from previous wisdom, but forced by the occasion.”

THANKS FOR THE WHALE TAIL TALE BY AILEEN MAY, Dana Point

Thank you to Editor Andrea Swayne for the nice article and photos (DP Times, February 25-March 3, 2011, Vol. 4, Issue 8, Festival of Whales special insert) regarding the long-awaited installation of the whale tail sculpture. It was such a fun

Page 8

Did you tune in to watch the Academy Awards show on Sunday? Yes. I never miss it.

33% No. It’s just not my thing.

23% The Academy Awards was on?

44% Make sure to sound off on the “DP Times Poll of the Week” at www.danapointtimes.com. Bookmark Dana Point Times today! The DP Times Online Reader Polls are not scientiﬁc and do not reﬂect the opinion of the DP Times.

collaborative project involving hundreds of members of the community. 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. Please limit your letters to 350 words. Because of the increased number of letters to the editor, the DP Times is unable to include every submission in our print edition. We will be posting additional letters to our website at www.danapointtimes.com.com.

PUBLISHER’S NOTE: By Andrea Swayne

Get Your Festival of Whales Program Here Have you misplaced your 40th Anniversary Festival of Whales ofﬁcial program that published in last week’s issue of the Dana Point Times? No worries. You can download a copy from our website at www.danapointtimes.com. The program has a full event schedule, maps and information to help you enjoy your time at the Festival. Free copies of the program will also be distributed at all Festival events on both weekends. www.danapointtimes.com

GETTING OUT

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

DS aannCale m Poe ni ntet

The List

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

friday

New Arrivals and New Releases Wine Tasting 5:30 p.m.-9 p.m. San Clemente Wine Company offers seven wines for $15. 212 1/2 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.429.7067, www.scwinecompany.com.

Dana Point Restaurant Week Dana Point restaurants serve up their best dishes and more for a week of fun. www.festivalofwhales.com/restaurantweek.php. Mardi Gras at The Harbor Grill 7 p.m. Celebrate Mardi Gras at The Harbor Grill through March 8. 34499 Golden Lantern St., Dana Point, 949.240.1416.

Go.See.Do 40

Annual Dana Point Festival of Whales

As the majestic gray whales pass by our coast each spring on their annual migration from cold Arctic waters back south to their warm summer breeding and calving lagoons in Baja, Dana Point celebrates the Festival of Whales. The first of two fun-filled weekends—March 5, 6, 12 and 13—begins Saturday as this year’s 40th anniversary event kicks off with a parade down Pacific Coast Highway. The parade—with floats, bands and giant balloons—begins at 10 a.m. and runs south on PCH from Selva Road to Golden Lantern. After the parade, visit La Plaza Park for a Whale of a Block Party—a fun carnival style event featuring rides, live music, food, crafts and an array of interactive booths for the entire family. Free shuttle buses will whisk visitors to and from the harbor where a full schedule of events is slated for all four days. There are whalewatching excursions from landside viewing to ocean cruises, stand-up paddle and sailing clinics, woodie cars, pancake breakfasts, the Grunion Run foot race, a treasure hunt and much more. Don’t miss the free Movie in the Park, Shark Tale, at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday at Baby Beach. For a full schedule of events, log on to www.danapointtimes.com and download the event program. —AS

Greater Tuna 8 p.m. Cabrillo Playhouse presents a satirical play on life in rural America. Through March 20. Tickets $20 general admission. 202 Avenida Cabrillo, San Clemente, 949.492.0465, www.cabrilloplayhouse.org. Piano Bar 7 p.m.–11 p.m. Live piano with Elliot every Friday and Saturday at The Cellar. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com. Aloha Friday 9 p.m. Dress island style for specials at BeachFire. Live music. No cover. 204 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.366.3232, www.beachfire.com. Dana Point Times March 4–10, 2011

sunday

saturday

Adventures in Paradise 7 p.m. Hulaville presents a family-friendly Polynesian Floor Show that takes a journey through the South Pacific, with Hula, Tahitian Dance and more. Come early for an a la carte dinner. Tickets $5. 2720 Camino Capistrano, San Clemente, 949.369.1905, www.hulavillecafe.com.

Spring Judged Art Show 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The San Clemente Art Association presents the artwork submitted to the 2011 Spring Judged Art Show in the Community Center through March 31, with winners announced. The artwork is for sale and proceeds go to schools. 100 N. Calle Seville, 949.492.7175, www.scartgallery.com.

Spartan Hike Celebration 12:45 p.m. American Spartan Hikers who’ve been on a 425-mile hike raise funds for combat-wounded veterans. Free ceremony at Park Semper Fi. 2 p.m.-4 p.m. RSVP-only reception at Fisherman’s; tickets $15. www.americanspartaninc.com.

Tom Morey Jazz Brunch 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Live music and brunch at Salt Creek Grille. 32802 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.661.7799, www.saltcreekgrille.com.

Dana Point Farmers Market 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Fresh produce and much more every Saturday at La Plaza Park, intersection of PCH and Golden Lantern in Dana Point. Satellite Horse Racing 10:30 a.m.-11 p.m. OC Tavern presents a fun event offered Wednesday through Sunday. 2369 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.542.8877, www.octavern.com. Rain Barrel Construction 1 p.m. The Ecology Center presents a class on rain barrel construction. Cost: $25 + $55 (optional) for rain barrel. Call or go online to pre-register. 32701 Alipaz St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.443.4223, www.theecologycenter.org.

Sideshow Shenanigans 8 p.m. Camino Real Playhouse presents a family-friendly circus-themed melodrama. $24-$40. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.489.8082, www.caminorealplayhouse.org.

Photo by Alan Gibby/Zone57.com

Mardi Gras Greek Style 6 p.m. The Greek Orthodox Mission of South OC holds a Mardi Gras event at the El Adobe with live Greek music, dinner, a “best costume” contest and a raffle. Dinner tickets $50 adults, $15 for children. 31891 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.542.3445, www.eladobedecapistrano.com. de Angelis Vocal Ensemble: Parisian Delights 8 p.m. Concert at Mission Basilica that combines the vibrancy of Renaissance Paris paired with composers from the 20th century. Tickets: $25 general admission, $20 student and seniors. 31520 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 714.928.9567, www.missionparish.org. They Came From Outer Space 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Casa Romantica’s NASA Space Exploration Exhibit on display featuring space stories, photos and equipment. Adults $5. Kids 12 and under $3. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org. Page 10

San Clemente Farmers Market 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Fresh produce, flowers and more every Sunday along Avenida Del Mar. Rain or shine. Mike DeBellis and Friends 1 p.m.-4 p.m. Jazz music on the patio at Ciao Pasta Trattoria every Sunday. 31661 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.5002, www.ciaopasta.net. Sashamon 7 p.m. A blend of reggae and Hawaiian music at The Coach House. Inited Dread and Stone Senses also perform. Tickets $15. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.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. 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.

monday

Lewis & Clark Expedition Across America 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Exhibit that examines Lewis and Clark’s remarkable adventure at Mission San Juan Capistrano. Ends March 31. Free with admission $5–$9. 26801 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com. (Cont. on page 14)

THIS WEEK’S WEATHER 3.4 Sunny H: 71° L: 46° 3.5 Partly Cloudy H: 72° L: 48° 3.6 Partly Cloudy H: 69° L: 47°

3.7 Few Showers H: 62° L: 43° 3.8 Showers H: 62° L: 42° 3.9 Partly Cloudy H: 66° L: 42° 3.10 Partly Cloudy H: 67° L: 44° www.danapointtimes.com

SHOP LOCAL! SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE DANA POINT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The Chamber is Just a Call or Click Away 949.496.1555 or www.danapointchamber.com

GETTING OUT (Cont. from page 10) Country Dancin’ with DJ Bubba 6:30 p.m. The fun starts early and goes till late at Swallow’s Inn every Monday. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

DP Times Restaurant Spotlight

Captain Mauri’s Counterculture 149 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.498.8098

Toddlertime 10:30 a.m.-11 a.m. Stories for youngsters ages 2-3 at the SC library; adult participation and sign-ups required. 242 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.3493, www.ocpl.org.

Best Known For: A variety of smoothies and fresh juices Most Popular Item: Bombay Melt sandwich Yes, San Clemente, there is a Captain Mauri. He is Mauricio Gutierrez, who has owned the popular Avenida Del Mar café for nearly six years now. Captain Mauri’s is one of those places that seems to do everything, but uniquely, does them all well. Breakfast is anchored by the popular Huevos Rancheros ($8.35) but other offerings include a variety of toasted bagels and even oatmeal. And don’t think eggs florentine is too fancy for a simple place, either. They’re good. The breakfast menu gives way to lunch at noon, and that’s your chance to try the Bombay Melt: Bali sauce, curry chicken salad, tomato, onions and melted jack cheese on a toasted English muffin. It’s served with soup, salad or potato salad, all for $7.25. But Captain Mauri’s is also known for its wide array of smoothies and juices—from the mixed veggie juice for $3.79 to the fresh-fruit smoothies for the same price. The honey vanilla shakes are another treat, too. And did we mention you can enjoy all of this while sitting outside on Del Mar and watching all of San Clemente wander by?

$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 and up. 212 1/2 Avenida Del Mar, 949.429.7067, www.scwinecompany.com. Smokey Karaoke 8 p.m. Sing fearlessly at BeachFire and enjoy Mojito Monday. No cover. 204 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.366.3232, www.beachfire.com.

tuesday

Poul Pedersen 6:30 p.m. Acoustic artist at Renaissance. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www. renaissance-danapoint.com.

2-for-1 Tuesdays Half price on fishing trips, whale watching and more at Dana Wharf. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com Seniors Mardi Gras Party 12 p.m. Celebrate at the Senior Center with entertainment by South Coast Dixie Jazz Band. 242 Avenida Del Mar, 949.498.3322. Benny on Flamenco Guitar 7 p.m.–11 p.m. Live music at The Cellar. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com. Pool & Karaoke 3 p.m.–close. Play pool for free at Knuckleheads every Tuesday. Karaoke starts at 9 p.m. 1717 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.492.2410. Stryper 8 p.m. Christian rock band live at The Coach House. The Cauze and Union of Saints also perform. Tickets $25. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

wednesday

Wicked 7:30 p.m. The popular Broadway play that takes place in “Oz” comes to the OC Performing Arts Center with shows through April 3. Tickets start at $38.75. 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.ARTS, www.ocpac.org.

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, wwwcasaromantica.org. The Danimals 7 p.m.-10:30 p.m. Live music at Renaissance. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.renaissance-danapoint.com. Old Capistrano Farmers Market 3 p.m.– 7 p.m. Every Wednesday at El Camino Real and Yorba in San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.4700. Comedy Night 9:30 p.m. Your chance to sing live at Molly Bloom’s Irish Bar & Restaurant. 2391 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.218.0120, www.mollybloomspub.com. Dana Point Times March 4–10, 2011

By Jonathan Volzke

Mauricio Gutierrez outside this Avenida Del Mar restaurant. Photo by Jonathan Volzke

Price Range: $3–$8.25 Payment: Cash and ATM Reservations: Not necessary Hours: 7 a.m.–5 p.m. daily. (6 p.m. in summer)

Go to www.danapointtimes.com and under “Getting Out” share your thoughts about this week’s restaurant.

Vine Wine Tasting & Food Pairing 7 p.m.–8 p.m. Educational wine tasting at Vine featuring four wines paired with food; $40 per person. 211 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.9376, www.vinesanclemente.com. Dupp Brothers 8 p.m. Live “hippy hillbilly” music at The Rib Joint. 34294 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.661.9500. Hot Tuna Blues and Charlie Mussel White 8 p.m. Solo and electric blues and roots music at The Coach House. Jim Lauderdale also perform. Tickets $30. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

thursday

Food Truck & Fare Thursdays 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.

Sasha Evans 8 p.m. Concert at The Coach House. Jason Feddy and Danny Maikka also perform. Tickets $12. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com. Ladies Night 9 p.m.-close. No cover for the ladies at Caliente Coastal Cantina. 34085 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.493.0549, www.calientecoastalcantina.com. The Painkillerz 7:30 p.m.-11 p.m. Live roots rock ‘n’ roll music at Renaissance. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.renaissance-danapoint.com. Gypsy Groove 7 p.m.–11 p.m. Live music at The Cellar. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com. *For our full calendar, visit the “Event Calendar” at www.danapointtimes.com. Have an event? Send your listing to events@danapointtimes.com Page 14

AT THE MOVIES

Which One’s Which

It’s the most anticipated time of the year in moviedom. The Academy Awards. Oscar night. And with the winners announced, you can expect the winners to return to theaters for those who missed them the first By Megan Bianco time around. Darren Aronofsky’s modern re-telling of Swan Lake comes in the form of Black Swan (2010). Starring now Oscar winner Natalie Portman as Nina Sayers caught up in her lust for the ballet company director (Vincent Cassel), stress and pressure from home life with her mom (Barbara Hershey) and a rivalry with a newcomer to the company (Mila Kunis). This year’s winners for supporting their film’s protagonists throughout the feature are Christian Bale and Melissa Leo with The Fighter (2010). Director David O. Russell is the man behind this year’s token sports film with Mark Wahlberg playing real-life boxer Micky Ward. The story follows his journey to success with the help of his trainer and drug addict brother Dicky (Bale) and to love with a local bartender (Amy Adams). Leo plays their hard-as-nails mother in this underdog tale. And taking the cake for big awards is The King’s Speech (2010). Known largely for his romantic comedy roles, Colin Firth has been given the prize of his career as best lead actor for portraying King George VI. Directed by now Academy Award winner Tom Hooper, who gave us the epic John Adams three years earlier, Firth is taught how to get rid of the king’s speech impediment with the help of a part-time actor and speech therapist (Geoffrey Rush) and the support of his wife and queen (Helena Bonham Carter). This 1930s British period piece was the academy’s choice for most outstanding feature of 2010. Whether interested in a suspense thriller set with ballerinas or a boxing film with a dysfunctional family or the struggle to speak to an entire nation without a stutter, the audience can now decide if the academy got it right or not. DP www.danapointtimes.com

DP LIVING

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

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

DS aannCale mPoe ni te nt

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

A License to Dream

DANA POINT BUSINESS OF THE MONTH FOR FEBRUARY 2011:

UP Sports

Dana Point students hear astronaut’s story of his journey from humble beginnings to outer space

Astronaut Jose Hernandez speaks to students from R.H. Dana Elementary and the Boys & Girls Club at the Casa Romantica in San Clemente on February 28. Photo by Stacie N. Galang

By Stacie N. Galang Dana Point Times

s a child, Jose Hernandez and his family traveled every February as migrant workers from the village of La Piedad, Michoacan, Mexico, stopped in Chino to pick strawberries and Salinas to farm lettuce and sugar beets and ended their journey in Stockton to gather cucumbers, cherries and peaches. The NASA astronaut shared the story of his humble beginnings Tuesday and his path to outer space with children from R.H. Dana Elementary and the Boys & Girls Club during a visit to Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens. “It was very difficult,” he said in an interview prior to his presentation. “The lifestyle we lived was not conducive to getting a good education.” Hernandez showed a video of his 2009 launch on Space Shuttle Discovery and spoke about his work as flight engineer and principle operator of the shuttle’s robotic Dana Point Times March 4–10, 2011

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

arm during the 14-day mission to the International Space Station. Though his parents had only third-grade educations, the astronaut said they never put limits on their children or discouraged Hernandez from pursuing a career as an astronaut. “What they actually did was they handed me a license to dream,” he said. Before their annual trek back to Mexico every November, Hernandez, his sister and two brothers would receive three months of homework to complete, he said. “I had the benefit of older siblings,” the engineer said. “That helped me academically. I didn’t master English until I was 12.” Hernandez gravitated to math and science because the subjects didn’t require mastery of the language. His third-grade teacher’s visit home one night changed the course for his family. Marlesse Young explained to his parents the importance of laying down roots, which impressed them enough for the family to shorten their visits to Mexico from three months to three weeks a year, said the father of five. Hernandez said he grew fascinated with space by watching some of the last Apollo missions on television, star gazing during early morning arrivals to the fields and hearing the news of fellow Hispanic Franklin Chang-Diaz’s selection by NASA in 1980 and journey into space in 1986. “I started reading everything about this guy I could find out,” Hernandez said. He would go on to earn a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering and a master’s degree in electrical and computer engineering at UC Santa Barbara. These weren’t enough to get him a seat on the shuttle. Hernandez tried 11 times before NASA accepted him into its program in 2001, he told the children. DP

UP Sports was founded in the late 1970s, with the first retail store opening in Newport Beach in the 1980s. The Dana Point location was founded in 1995 and recently moved to its current location on Pacific Coast Highway in October to increase visibility and foot traffic. Chris Mamola and his wife bought the store in 2005 after he retired from the Pasadena Fire Department. In addition to the retail location, their website sells premium products to those who live outside of the community. Short for “Ultralight Products,” the original focus of UP Sports was on windsurfing and hang-gliding, but as industry and athletic trends changed over the years, UP Sports has shifted its focus to kayaks, car racks and sports trailers to the outdoor adventurer. In addition to their huge selection

Mayor Scott Schoeffel presents UP Sports owner Chris Mamola with a Business of the Month proclamation. Photo by Andrea Swayne

Page 16

of car racks and kayaks, they offer rack pads, tie down straps, cargo boxes, gear baskets, rentals and much more. UP Sports is always looking for the very best products to test and offer to customers. Their ever-growing line of vehicle and truck racks and rack accessories from Thule, Yakima and Inno give customers the essentials they need like surfboard and bicycle racks to full systems with cargo boxes and gear baskets. Not only does UP Sports offer fair and competitive pricing, but the staff at UP Sports has the experience to make sure that the vehicle rack selection and installation will be done right the first time. They have an enthusiastic passion for the outdoors that they share with their customers, allowing them to build relationships that keep people coming back for more. Not only are they committed to their customers, but they are enthusiastic about helping make our community a better place. UP Sports has provided free demos at the Dana Point Harbor Boat Show, participated in the Dana Point Grand Prix of Cycling, and given donations to Dana Hills and San Clemente High Schools. In the future, Chris Mamola and his staff hope to open three more stores in Orange County, as the economy continues to improve and tourism increases. The City of Dana Point commends Chris and his staff for providing quality customer service and products to the outdoor adventurers and visitors of Dana Point. The city also wishes him many years of continued success and congratulates UP Sports on being selected as the Dana Point Featured Business of the Month for February 2011. UP Sports is located at 34155 PCH and can be reached by phone at 949.443.5161 or online at www.upsports.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. For more information, please contact Lynn Kelly at lkelly@danapoint.org or 949.248.3512. To see past recipients, log on to www.danapoint.org and click on “Business.” DP www.danapointtimes.com

Locals Only

Business Directory

The only directory featuring Dana Point businesses exclusively AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING

BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT

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

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

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

BEAUTY SALONS Azalea Salon & Boutique 949.248.3406 24452 Del Prado Ave. Ste. A, www.azaleasalonandboutique.com Paragon Salon 949.489.1955 34161 Pacific Coast Hwy. Salon Revelation - Dayna Dallas 949.248.8595 34192 Violet Lantern #2

Bookkeeper / Organizer

Jeweler

Junk Removal

Chick’s Plumbing, Inc. Proudly Serving South Orange County Since 1975

949.496.9731 www.chicks-plumbing.com Lic# 310654

CARPET CLEANING

ELECTRICAL

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 www.steamcleaningdanapoint.com Fit Club - Boot Camp 949.831.7984 www.afitclub.com CATERING Jazzercise, O.C. Sailing & Events Center Smokey’s House of BBQ 949.388.8102 34451 Ensenada Place, 949.492.7817 32860 Pacific Coast Hwy. #4, www.danapointjazz.com www.SmokeysHouseofBBQ.com CHRISTIAN CHURCHES Christian Science Services 34102 La Plaza

949.661.3151

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

COMPUTER REPAIR & SERVICES

Lic. # B853695

HAIR SALONS

949.606.6425

ICE CREAM Mary Kay Cosmetics & Career 949.248.2868 Opportunities, Ind. Sales Director - Marline Adams, Coffee Importers Scoop Deck 949.493.7773 www.marykay.com/madams2 34531 Golden Lantern, www.coffeeimporters.com 949.661.5664

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

949.496.3315

LANDSCAPING Rocky Taylor Landscaping rjls@cox.net

Insurance Services Patricia Powers 949.496.1900 License#0737080, pat.powers@cox.net Statefarm/Elaine LaVine 949.240.8944 34080 Golden Lantern, www.elainelavine.net State Farm/Ted Bowersox 949.661.3200 34085 Pacific Coast Hwy. #204 www.tedbowersox.com

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

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

949.248.1007

Surf Shops 949.697.1770

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

TUTORING 949.496.6919

MUSIC INSTRUCTION

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 Dana Point Upholstery 949.240.2292 Danman’s Music School 949.242.4431 24402 Del Prado 24699 Del Prado, www.danmans.com Jeddy’s Yacht & Home Interiors 949.240.9569 34118 Pacific Coast Hwy, www.jeddys.com

PET GROOMING

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

949.496.3315

Window Coverings

PIZZA Beach Cities Pizza 34473 Golden Lantern St. 34155 Pacific Coast Hwy.

WINDOW CLEANING Bayside Window Cleaning 949.290.8230 www.baysidewindowcleaning.com

949.496.0606

PRESCHOOLS

San Clemente Preschool 949.498.1025 163 Avenida Victoria, 949.496.1957 sanclementepreschool@gmail.com

COSMETICS

DENTISTS

949.697.4517

GIFT BASKETS 949.496.2670 Under-Wraps Gift Baskets 949.291.0300 Plumbing mariannedorsey@cox.net, Chick’s Plumbing 949.496.9731 www.giftbasketsbyunderwraps.com www.chicks-plumbing.com HANDYMAN SERVICES Mission Plumbing & Heating 949.492.4303 www.missionplumbingandheating.com Robert’s Professional Handyman Services

San Clemente Computer & Network Services Monarch Bay Haircutters daniel@sanclementecomputer.com 949.276.1581 20 Monarch Bay Plaza Solution Tek-nologies 949.400.0080 Paragon Salon 949.489.1955 www.solutiontek-nologies.com 34161 Pacific Coast Hwy. Utopia Salon 949.661.1664 CONTRACTORs - GENERAL Barry 949.661.1664 Creative Environments Construction 949.496.3728 Gary 949.231.9755 Design & Build #464468 Morgan 949.433.3960 24582 Del Prado, #B, www.barrysutopia.com

Dana Point Dental 34080 Golden Lantern, Ste 201, www.danapointdental.com

Green Dump Truck www.greendumptruck.com

LOCKSMITH

EMBROIDERY

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

RESTAURANTS

Dana Point Jeweler 949.489.1165 24845 Del Prado, www.danapointjeweler.com

949.360.9282 Accurate Bookeeping 949.412.5345 delta G electrical CA #657214, www.deltagelect.com lisathebookkeeper@yahoo.com

CAFE - DELI

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

Jeddy’s Yacht & Home Interiors 949.240.9569 34118 Pacific Coast Hwy, www.jeddys.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. Call Angela Edwards at 949.682.1667 or e-mail aedwards@ danapointtimes.com.

Business Directory DP DSaan n Cl a em Poenintet

CLASSIFIEDS Submit your classified ad online at www.danapointtimes.com

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES SOLAR BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY $ 14,900 call 818.528.8520

Business Services Attn: Women Entrepreneurs Are you struggling to build your business from home? Our one-day business intensive workshop will give you clarity, balance & a plan to achieve goals within 90 days. For more information and to register, go to: http://AV2Concept.com/Workshop

FOR RENT 2 bed 2 bath townhouse in paradise South San Clemente, walk to Trestles. Enclosed yard with golf course view. Pets OK. $2000/mo. (+ security/negotiable) Available March 15. 724-630-3217 NOTICE FOR LEASE OPPORTUNITY AT DANA POINT HARBOR Dana Point Marina Company is soliciting proposals until space is fully leased at 34551 Casitas Place, Dana Point, CA 92629. This office/retail space is located adjacent to a busy retail center in Dana Point Harbor with a great view of marina and watercraft. Proposals are to be submitted based on operating a business for the highest and best use meeting the public’s needs, and complying with the State of California’s Tidelands Grant. To obtain a copy of the RFP and register for free, go to “BidSync” http://egov. ocgov.com/ocgov/Procurement & use “Open Bids” for RFP Number: 108-614981-DP. Dana Point Harbor is a County of Orange facility and does not pay commissions.

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

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

Dana Point Times March 4–10, 2011

Page 19

www.danapointtimes.com

SPORTS

& OUTDOORS

5 BEST BETS

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES & MORE

D a n a Po in t

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

DP SURF

GIRLS SOFTBALL

BASKETBALL

Aztecs vs. Dolphins Dana Hills High School March 4, 3:15 p.m.

Bobcats vs. Lakers Staples Center March 4, 7:30 p.m. Before hitting up four key games on the road, the Lakers will host the Charlotte Bobcats at the Staples Center.

The Lady Dolphins are primed to compete on the diamond as the girls host Esperanza High School.

Info: www.nba.com/lakers

Info: www.dhhs.net

WRESTLING

BOYS LACROSSE

BOYS VOLLEYBALL

State Meet Rabobank Arena, Bakersﬁeld March 4-5, 10 a.m.

Lions vs. Dolphins Dana Hills high School March 5, 1 p.m.

Lancers vs. Dolphins Dana Hills High School March 10, 5:30 p.m.

Cruise I-5 on a road trip to support Dana Hills’ top wrestler as he competes for glory at the state level. Info: www.dhhs.net

The Dolphins rush the ﬁeld for its ﬁrst home game of the regular season and will host JSerra High School.

Dana Hills hosts Orange Lutheran in a regular season battle that will offer the Dolphins a nice test. Info: www.dhhs.net

Info: www.dhhs.net

D a n a Po in t

Dolphin Report SPORTS NEWS FROM DANA HILLS HIGH SCHOOL

By David Zimmerle

WRESTLING • The Dana Hills wrestling team had several of its grapplers hit the mat at the CIF Masters State Qualifier at Temecula Valley High February 25-26. Advancing to this top-tier round included Bryan Seefried (145), Jordan Toaves (152), Austin Devone (160) and Kamron Abedi (171). When the smoke finally cleared the Dolphins ended up finishing tied for 57th place with 15 points and shared the spot with Canyon of Anaheim, Walnut and Torrance High Schools. Calvary Chapel/SA (93), Oak Hills (88.5) and Laguna Hills (88) all finished in first, second and third place, respectively. In the end, it was Bryan Seefried who

finished in eighth place in the 145 pound division. Kicking off the Masters Meet, Seefried defeated Devin Anderson of Yucaipa High in the first round by a 12-2 decision. He then went on to face Brian Simmons out of Hemet High and also beat his opponent by a close 6-4 decision. However, in the third round Seefried lost to Andrew Gonzalez from Oxnard high by a large 14-6 margin. Gonzalez then went on to lose to eventual champion Hayden Scarborough from Glendora High in the next round. The other Dolphins wrestlers fared no better with Toaves making an early first round exit after losing by fall to Christian Warden out of Calvary Chapel/SA High.

Devone also saw defeat in the first round at the hands of Pat Larkin from Highland High School, losing by fall to his opponent at 1:08. Abedi went on to face Robin Kim from Troy High School and escaped the first round with a 9-6 win against his opponent. But in the second round the senior was strong-armed and left with a 3-2 defeat after facing off against Alfredo Becerra from Santa Ana High School. Now, it’s up to Seefried to see if he can be a winner at the state level. He now moves on to the CIF State Championships which will be held at the Rabobank Arena in Bakersfield March 4-5. DANA POINT WRESTLING CLUB GEARS UP FOR CAMP If your young grappler wants to get ready for the high school mat, the Dana Point Wrestling Club is where they can

put their skills into action. The club is open to athletes ages 6 to18. The first session is for kids in first-through sixth-grade and will run from March 15 to June 9, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Dana Hills High School. The club will then have its second session June 27 to July 22nd, Monday and Wednesday from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. for all incoming freshman and current high school wrestlers. And beginning on June 28th, Tuesday and Thursday sessions will also commence from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Trabuco Hills High School. Kids in grades one to six can also hit the mat during the second session on Mondays and Wednesdays from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. The cost of camp is $350 and wrestlers are required to bring wrestling shoes, shorts and a T-shirt to camp. More information is available by calling 949.525.3591 or 949.496.6666 ext. 2881.

Paddling Fun for Everyone 2nd Annual Mickey Munoz Mongoose Cup paddling event set for March 12 By Andrea Swayne Dana Point Times

he Mickey Munoz Mongoose Cup is back for a second year at Baby Beach in the Dana Point Harbor and is set to take place on Saturday, March 12 beginning at 9 a.m. The event offers paddling fun for everyone, camaraderie and a Waterman Expo as part of the annual Dana Point Festival of Whales event lineup and proceeds go to benefit local charitable organizations. The Expo will include vendor booths, Stand-up paddle sport activities, kids racing competitions, board repair clinics, training techniques and demonstrations. SUP pros will be on site throughout the day offering instruction. Attendees can Dana Point Times March 4–10, 2011

ssee and try out all the latest equipment, as well as pick up helpful tips and pointers about SUP. The day starts off with a Fun Paddle, open to any type of paddling craft followed by the Mongoose Cup SUP only relays and a harbor cleanup sweep. “Since safety and etiquette have become much more critical and Dana Point Harbor has become a mecca for paddle sports, we wanted to hold an event with a message about the importance of water safety and paddling etiquette,” said Munoz. “We also want to take the opportunity to demonstrate stewardship towards one of our favorite places to paddle, Dana Point Harbor, and keep it clean.” Participants will receive a commemorative Mongoose Cup T-shirt, barbecue

Mickey Munoz Mongoose Cup 2010 at Baby Beach. Photo courtesy of Dana Point Historical Society

lunch and the opportunity to meet and paddle with surf icon Mickey Munoz. Register online at www.mongoosecup. eventbrite.com for discounted entry fees

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or sign up at the beach beginning at 7:30 a.m. the morning of the event. For information, contact Barrett Tester by email at barrett.tester@gmail.com. DP www.danapointtimes.com

DP SURF

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

DS aannCalePmoe ni te nt

Grom of the MONTH Malaya Ring Age: 5, Saddleback Valley Christian Malaya Ring of Dana Point loves stand-up paddling (SUP) with her dad Karl as well as riding waves on both bodyboards and longboards. She can often be found at one of her favorite breaks—Victoria Beach, 10th Street, San Onofre State Beach or Doheny State Beach—surfing solo on a longboard as well as on her pink soft-top Doyle. Having had a great time last year, Malaya and her dad plan on paddling once again in the upcoming SUP event, the Mickey Munoz Mongoose Cup at Baby Beach Photo by Mike Muir in Dana Point. When weather or waves are uncooperative and she can’t be at the beach, Malaya also enjoys riding her new bike or Razor scooter, hanging out with her sister Makayla or playing My Little Ponies. She is also a budding artist and spends much of her free indoor time painting and drawing. Malaya’s favorite foods include turkey meatballs, chicken tacos, pancakes and ice cream. When asked who her favorite athlete is, Malaya says, “My dad, of course.” But she also admires Kerri Walsh, Candice Appleby and Chuck Patterson. Malaya is a friend to animals of all kinds, especially her beloved dog Molly. —Andrea Swayne

Surf Icon Doc Paskowitz Turns 90 Doc remembers huge, groomed pre-marina swells, his wife remembers DP as unattainable paradise By Judd Handler Special to Dana Point Times

he Paskowitz family is perhaps the most famous clan in surfing history. Most longtime surfers are probably familiar with the fascinating nomadic odyssey that the Paskowitz family embarked on—all 11 of them—beginning in the early 1960s and continuing for the better part of two decades. Many longtime surfers in Southern California personally know the patriarch of the family, Dorian, aka “Doc,” and his strikingly exotic 79-year old wife Juliette, as well as some of their brood, like Orange County resident and former longboard champ Israel “Izzy” Paskowitz, one of Doc and Juliette’s eight sons. (Lone daughter, Nava, is the eighth child). Other people are familiar with the fascinating Paskowitz narrative through the 2007 documentary Surfwise, which chronicled the anything-but Brady Bunch lifestyle that this royal, first family of surfing led. Instead of chasing the typical “American Dream,” the Paskowitz family, often down to their last 10 dollars (or last dime as one segment in “Surfwise” suggests), chased the waves up and down the California and Baja coasts. The nine Paskowitz kids were “homeschooled” in a 24-foot camper van, educated by a life on the road. Most summers, the Paskowitz clan was holed up at Old Man’s at San O. Any surfer who spent time at Old Man’s no doubt remembers the family’s Paskowitz Surf Camp, which may very well be the first of its kind in California, and which is now run by Izzy. Doc, despite earning a medical degree from Stanford, refused to profit from helping sick people. He chose instead to live a life of regimented simplicity and poverty, bartering when he had to, instead of being tied down to a mortgage and job and not being able to surf. He did, however, write a book titled Surfing and Health. But now, the Paskowitz parents live a Dana Point Times March 4–10, 2011

Dorian “Doc” Paskowitz and wife Juliette outside their Villas at Monarch Bay condo in Dana Point. Courtesy photo

world away and a lifetime away from the Spartan camper van lifestyle. A cozy condo at the Villas at Monarch Bay, off of Niguel Road, is now home for Juliette and Doc, who turned 90 on March 3. Dana Point was always a paradise of sorts in the minds of Doc and Juliette, even in the midst of their nomadic era. Although it represented the American dream of home ownership and traditional, conservative values, antithetical to the Paskowitz’s existence, Dana Point was a utopia of comfort, says Juliette, from her condo. “Whenever we were driving down the coast, I would think to myself, Dana Point is such a beautiful area. I remember it being so clean and the smell of the flowers was intoxicating…it was like being in another world,” says Juliette. “Someday,” she told herself a long time ago, “I’d love to live here [Dana Point].” But Juliette never thought she’d be living in such an affluent community like Dana Point. Thanks to one of her children footing the rent, she and Doc have been able to enjoy living here for about the past five years. While the Paskowitz clan was living in the camper van, Juliette admits to secretly

praying for a life of creature comforts. “I always dreamed of having a little apartment with a breadbox and pictures hanging on the wall and a real bedroom. Most things that people take for granted I was fantasizing about,” she says. For Juliette, daydreaming about Dana Point began in the 1970s, as the Paskowitz family filled out and the camper van became more cramped. Doc remembers Dana Point more for the pristine surf. “Dana Point was just bluffs and sea and the pier when I started surfing there in 1936,” says Doc, who still manages to exercise daily, though he rarely surfs, usually doing so only when he travels to Waikiki. A hip replacement a few years ago keeps him riding on his knees. “I remember carrying a 45-pound board right down the cliff. In those days the beauty of Dana Point was that the wind would blow from the northwest to the southeast and although it might have been ‘Victory at Sea’ everywhere else with 15 knots and choppy wind, Doheny was absolutely glassy and perfect because of the cliffs and the bay grooming the swell.” Doc says that he and a few friends, including early surfing luminaries like Lloyd Baker, Loren Harrison and “Peanuts” Lawson would often be practically “Barenaked as a bluejay” in the middle of winter. “I don’t know how we managed to surf in those conditions. I guess we didn’t know any better. We didn’t have wetsuits or leashes.” Doc remembers 10- to 12-foot swells forming at the beginning of the point at San Juan Rock that would roll in the bay and ultimately crash on the rocks at the base of the bluffs a quarter-mile away. “I remember Adie Baer, the greatest paddle boarder I ever knew, losing his board on the rocks during a heavy day,” remembers Doc. “His board smashed into the bluffs and broke in half.”

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It’s not clear if Doc ever craved the creature comforts that Juliette dreamed about. Judging by the fact that he turned down an inheritance from an aunt of $40,000 for fear it would ruin the mojo of the family’s lifestyle, Doc probably didn’t dwell too much on the finer material things in life. But perhaps the few times Doc spent with legendary surf filmmaker Bruce Brown of Endless Summer fame at his Dana Point home made Doc think twice. The experience definitely had a profound impact on Juliette. In 1959, when Juliette was nursing the first Paskowitz grom, David, (she would go on to spend the next decade almost constantly nursing) she and Doc were living in the back of her 1949 Ford Studebaker. Brown had just released his first surf film Slippery When Wet, five years before the mega-popular Endless Summer paraded around the U.S. Juliette says that even though Brown wasn’t as wealthy when ‘Slippery When Wet’ came out as he would become after ‘Endless Summer’, she remembers saying to herself when visiting his place, “Gosh, Dana Point is the most beautiful city in the world….I never would have thought I would be so blessed to live here.” Judd Handler writes a surfing blog at DivineSurfDesign.com and lives in Encinitas. DP

SURF RESULTS AND UPCOMING EVENTS Surf Results Online Log on to www.danapointtimes.com and click on “SURF” for to see contest results and keep up on how our local surfers are faring in competition. If you have other results that you would like to see posted on our website, please email them to aswayne@ danapointtimes.com. www.danapointtimes.com