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Volume 4, Issue 10

On the Waterfront A look into the daily lives of the men and women of Dana Point Harbor Patrol E Y E O N D P/ PAG E 4

Deputies Donna Sievers and Jeff Schnell of the Dana Point Harbor Patrol stand in front of their boats which serve as multi-purpose patrol vessels. Photo by Christina Scannapiego

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Dana Point Times Introduces Columnist Tom Blake

FESTIVAL OF WHALES: Weekend One Highlights

Civic Association to Discuss City’s Drug Issues

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Eye on DP

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

City and Business Calendar Saturday and Sunday, March 12-13 40th Annual Festival of Whales Log on to www.danapointtimes.com to see the official Dana Point Festival of Whales program, including an event schedule and map. Information can also be found at www.festivalofwhales.com.

Sunday, March 13 Festival of Whales Grunion Run 7 a.m.-10 a.m. A 5K, 10K race and Kids’ 1K Fun Run on a flat and fast scenic run through Doheny State Beach. Proceeds benefit the DSBIA (Doheny State Beach Interpretive Assocation.) Cost is $35-$40. Visit www.festivalofwhalesgrunionrun.

D a n a Po i nt

com, call 949.716.4558 or email goldenlegsracingca@gmail.com for more information. Whale of a Concert and BBQ Noon-4:30 p.m. Dana Point Harbor, Baby Beach area. Free concert on a floating stage, featuring Steel Parade (noon-1 p.m.), The Eliminators (1:30 p.m.-2:30 p.m.) and The Surftunes (3 p.m.-4:30 p.m.). Concessions include a BBQ and Spirits Garden for those over 21 with a valid driver’s license. For more information call 949.248.3530.

Monday, March 14 City Council Meeting 6 p.m. City Council Chambers, 33282,

Golden Lantern, 949.248.3501, www.danapoint.org

Tuesday, March 15 Toastmasters 7 p.m. Dana Point Harbor Toastmasters meets every Tuesday at the Dana Point Library. 33841 Niguel Road, 949.496.2275, www.danaharbor.freetoasthost.ws

Wednesday, March 16 Sunrise Rotary Club 7 a.m. the Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary Club meets every Wednesday at the Ritz-Carlton. 1 Ritz-Carlton Drive, 949.493.2759, www.monarchbeachrotary.com

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

…Increased Border Patrol Efforts?

THE LATEST: About 70 people attended the March 3 Border Patrol forum at the OC Sailing & Events Center in Dana Point Harbor. San Diego Sector Chief Paul A. Beeson and other officials, announced they will increase efforts to fight the immigration battle on the sea, as the number of illegal immigrants and drugs brought in over the water is increasing. OCSD, OCFA and the Coast Guard were also present, to answer questions and highlight the cooperative nature of the interagency network formed to tackle this issue. On February 15, for example, Border Patrol officers caught 18 Mexican nationals in a boat off Dana Point. Similar apprehensions have become familiar in the area. “We have an issue with these boats landing on our beaches and dropping off undocumented migrants. They’re engaged in both human trafficking and drug trafficking,” Beeson said. “We are engaged with our law enforcement partners to address these issues… So the goal this evening was to alert the public to the threat and enlist their support.” WHAT’S NEXT: Authorities urged the public to report boats, fuel containers or life vests they spot along the beaches, as those are often indicators of illegal smuggling. FIND OUT MORE: To report suspicious activity, email the Orange County Intelligence Assessment Center at ociac@ociac.org or call the Joint Harbor Operations Center at 800.854.9834. —Andrea Swayne

…CUSD Students Advancing Together?

THE LATEST: Keeping middle school Dana Point Times March 11–17, 2011

students together as they advance to high school was added as criteria for approving open-enrollment applications at Tuesday’s CUSD meeting. The issue was raised by Trustee John Alpay who represents San Clemente. He lamented that Shorecliffs Middle School students, for example, were split among San Clemente and San Juan Hills high schools. The district prioritizes open-enrollment applications based on whether a student has a sibling at the school, has attended the school for a year but moved, if the parents’ home is in a Mello Roos district, and now whether a school feeder pattern sends students to different campuses. Under the change approved Tuesday, students can opt to stay with classmates as they advance. WHAT’S NEXT: The open-enrollment application period ends March 11 and at the high school level, San Juan Hills and Tesoro high schools were the only campuses accepting open enrollment applications for the 2011-2012 school year. Aliso Niguel, Capistrano Valley, Dana Hills, and San Clemente high schools were only accepting one-to-one transfers because of the number of students they already serve.. FIND OUT MORE: More information can be found on the “Open Enrollment” page on the CUSD website at www.capousd.org or by calling 949.234.9335. —Jonathan Volzke/AS

the bottom line will remain the same. The city had expected $11,055,351 in revenue by December, but the actual figures were $10,685,191. Many of the lineitem deficits were offset by increases from other revenues. But one primary revenue stream, the transient occupancy tax, was off by $409,841. After speaking to hotel managers, staff expressed confidence the revenue from the tax would bounce back as the year progresses. City staff proposed decreasing the overall revenue by $90,000 and simultaneously decreasing operating expenses by $90,000. One area the city needed to increase was its risk management, better known as its legal fund. Several litigation matters have come up this year—most notably, litigation surrounding medical marijuana dispensaries—forcing the city to increase the line-item by $410,000. City Attorney Patrick Munoz noted that a “substantial portion” of the costs could be recovered as the items are resolved. WHAT’S NEXT: During the city’s two-year budget cycle, the City Council has twice amended its projections, bringing the total general fund budget to $28.5 million. This time, no changes to the overall projections were needed. FIND OUT MORE: For more budget information, visit the city’s website at www. danapoint.org. — Stacie N. Galang/AS

…the City’s Budget?

THE LATEST: City Council, at the February 28 meeting, presented the city’s budget update report. Through December, Dana Point’s revenues were running a 3.3 percent, or $370,160, deficit from projected budget figures. By making minor adjustments throughout the city budget,

…Drug Issues in the Community?

THE LATEST: The Dana Point Civic Association’s monthly Third Friday Coffee Chat on March 18 will feature the discussion topic: Drug Problems in the Community and Dana Hills High School. Guest speakers will include City

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Manager Doug Chotkevys and Dana Hills High School Intervention Specialist Mike Darnold. Coffee Chat is held at 8:30 a.m. at Coffee Importers, 34531 Golden Lantern in the harbor. WHAT’S NEXT: Coffee Chat is held on the third Friday of each month and the public is always welcome. Guest speakers and discussion topics vary to include issues and items of interest to Dana Point residents. The Civic Association welcomes topic and guest speaker suggestions. To make a suggestion, call Civic Association President Pat Fairbanks at 949.661.9999. FIND OUT MORE: Stay tuned to the DP Times for information on monthly Coffee Chat events. For more information, call Pat Fairbanks at 949.661.9999. —AS

…the Charitable Grant Funding Deadline?

THE LATEST: The next deadline for nonprofits wishing to apply to the City of Dana Point for grant funding is April 1, 4:30 p.m. The city allocates $25,000 in grant funds to contribute twice yearly—deadlines are October 1 and April 1—to nonprofit city-based organizations and programs that provide valuable services and have a demonstrated track record for viability and fundraising. WHAT’S NEXT: According to city policy, the Charitable Grant Subcommittee evaluates every request on its own merit and awards funding at its discretion. The dispersion of funds may take up to 60 days following the Subcommittee’s decision. FIND OUT MORE: The grant funding policy and application can be downloaded from www.danapoint.org or picked up from the City Clerk at Dana Point City Hall, 33282 Golden Lantern, Suite 203. —AS www.danapointtimes.com

Eye on DP

To Serve and to Protect: On the Water A look into the daily lives of the men and women of Dana Point Harbor Patrol By Christina Scannapiego Dana Point Times

wo red triangular flags flying over the Dana Point Harbor Patrol building indicate gale-force winds. Problem is, most people don’t know that…most people don’t even know to look. The common vacationer, and oftentimes local, doesn’t always realize that galeforce conditions mean winds between 32 and 63 miles per hour, which can cause some serious, wishy-washy and unpredictable swells and currents and accompany drops in air and water temps as well as rain. Risky conditions are one of the many reasons the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, whose jurisdiction includes coastal waters from Sunset Beach to San Mateo Point, provides rescue services as well as all law enforcement services on the water—and they’re the only marine firefighters in the county with approximately six fire boats and 12 patrol boats between the three headquarter locations. Luckily for many of us, one of those headquarters is right here in Dana Point Harbor. Early this past stormy Monday morning, OCSD Harbor Patrol Deputies Jeff Schnell and Donna Sievers began their shift driving the patrol boat with a warning to a couple of kayakers, who cruised through the harbor and into the open ocean. They approached the duo to explain what Donna Sievers and Jeff Schnell are part of the team that make up the eyes and ears of the harbor: The Dana Point Harbor Patrol. precarious situations they may face manning such small, Photo by Christina Scannapiego non-motorized crafts in large 5- to 7-foot swells. “People who are unfamiliar with the ocean go out there and don’t go through a certain number of years in a patrol car as it looks wrong, it is,” Schnell said. Their crew is truly the really know what it’s going to do,” said Schnell. well as fulfilling prison system duties, a certain percenteyes and ears of the harbor. And though those two particular adventurers—who had age do so with the intention or desire to work on the wa“It’s astonishing how similar it is to a city,” Schnell says informed the deputies that they actually welcomed the ter. The nature of the work is just different—although the of the aspect of crime watch in his job. “All the crimes you rough conditions for a challenge—more or less heeded deputies are first and foremost there to keep the peace see on land are present here, too, from murder down to the tip-off and concluded their excursion without peril. and they make arrests and give citations when needed, petty theft.” He and Sievers constantly remind people to Another kayaker wasn’t so lucky later on that afternoon “it’s more positive, officer-friendly” concluded Schnell, lock up their boats and expensive equipment and investiwhen Harbor Patrol received a call that someone had seen who also happens to be a licensed Coast Guard captain. gate anything “fishy.” a man capsized in the 56 or so degree water. The capsized Sievers agreed with Schnell when he said that “I know The truth is Harbor Patrol officers wear so many hats. man had very little knowledge of the sport, having owned a lot of cops who wouldn’t come work [for Harbor Patrol] They serve as firefighters for boat fires, their red boat his kayak for only three months and making it out into because it’s not all about making arrests. But I was trying equipped with all the firefighting equipment they should the water only a couple times per week. He didn’t know to get here since I started,” Schnell said of his goal to join need. They catch boats that have snapped lines and are where to locate his drain pumps, the proper way to check the Harbor Patrol team. set adrift. They make sure everyone is following no-wake weather and ocean condition forecasts. When Schnell and Growing up in San Clemente, he was always a surfer, rules through the harbor so as not to damage the many Sievers finally located him near McNulty’s skimboarder and scuba diver. “It’s in my docked boats resting in their slips. They escort dignitar“Out of any Rock, he was totally submerged up to blood,” he said. ies. They help rescue sea life and clean up environmentalhis head and barely able to hang on to “I love the water,” Sievers agreed. She’s ly contaminated areas. They work with the lifeguards and department, his sinking kayak due to the total loss of been a recreational scuba diver for years, Coast Guard. They respond to medical emergencies. dexterity in his outer limbs from the cold. Recently, they were called out to the Catalina Express it’s got the best exploring local waters as well as the depths After all, weather is unpredictable, and the of Catalina, Puget Sound, Hawaii and Belize. when a woman on board believed she was having a heart detail, it’s the stretch of Pacific that lines South Orange Sievers came off of many years on motorattack. Luckily, it turned out that the passenger had mereCounty’s coast is not always calm waters, cycle duty before she joined Harbor Patrol ly taken too many anti-nausea pills, but some are not so most fun and blue skies, sunscreen and swim trunks. two years ago and, for her, aside from the lucky. Schnell and Sievers recall several recent fatalities, the rescues are rescues and safety aspects of the job, the On days like Monday, bundled-up one involving a jet-skier who has found already floating in deputies take buckets of water to the face perks include the close relationship to the the water near his personal watercraft. The team on-shift exciting.” from hitting all the big swell bumps on the ever-changing ocean and chance to see so assesses every situation and works out the fastest way water’s surface while they’re out in their much sea life throughout a typical day. to provide help, depending on conditions, wait time for —Donna Sievers white patrol boat or red fire boat. But as far as diving goes, Sievers likes paramedics and the many other factors constantly in flux “He couldn’t even wave for us,” said Schnell, getting to keep that aspect of her life out of her work, so as not when dealing with the balance between Mother Nature back to his recent rescue. “He was absolutely exhausted. to ruin the fun of it, she said. Schnell, on the other hand, and human lives. In fact, he was so exhausted and out of it, we had to exhas been part of Orange County’s only dive team for 11 So for all 12 members of the Dana Point Harbor Patrol, plain to him how to sit down.” It took the strength of both years. He was one of the group that recovered the plane the four months of intense training, including more than Schnell and Sievers to pull him out of the water and into that had crashed and sunk off Dana Point in 2005. He three months of learning boat handling—and all the injutheir rescue boat since he had expired every bit of energy also aids in searches for evidence in criminal and murder ries received on the job—is worth it. in his body just trying to stay afloat. “He’s very lucky. If cases, most recently searching the ocean floor, equipped “It’s a great place to work,” Sievers said. “Out of any someone hadn’t seen him, I don’t know what would’ve with underwater metal detectors and sonar, for a gun that department, it’s got the best detail, it’s the most fun and happened,” Schnell admitted. a suspect confessed to having thrown off the end of the the rescues are exciting. Opportunities to help and rescue people are part of jetty in Dana Point. “The fun part is that the ocean is never the same,” what drew deputies like Schnell and Sievers to their posiBut despite search gear provided by Homeland Secuadded Schnell. “One day can be so wildly different from tions. Though every Harbor Patrol deputy is required to rity grants, the Harbor Patrol deputies rely on instinct. “If the last.” DP

Dana Point Times March 11–17, 2011

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News Next Door

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

Measure A: Voters Decide Against Playa Del Norte The fight against Measure A was victorious, as voters turned away the measure— which would have allowed 48,970-squarefoot commercial and retail development at North Beach—by a 57.7 percent to 42.3 percent margin. Of San Clemente’s 41,332 voters, 39.6 percent cast a ballot. In the end, Playa Del Norte at North Beach will not go forward. The project was proposed by Costa Mesa-based LAB Holdings, owned by Linda and Shaheen Sadeghi. LAB had been the top of three developers to make proposals at North Beach. Their latest plan had been approved by the City Council July 19, but within weeks opponents had secured the signatures of enough residents to create Measure A. On Tuesday, by the time the last votes were counted just before 11 p.m., 9,424 voted against the LAB project at North Beach, while 6,922 voted in support of the development. “The voters have spoken loudly and clearly,” said Wayne Eggleston, a former City Councilman who opposed Measure A.

DP Sheriff’s Blotter Compiled By Pantea Ommi Mohajer 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, March 6 DISTURBANCE Via Sacramento, 26000 Block (10:29 p.m.) A woman called in hysterics, reporting a fight between two men, one armed with a knife. Another woman grabbed the phone to say no one had a knife, and that the first caller was drunk. DISTURBANCE Golden Lantern, 34000 Block (8:06 p.m.) A driver called to report an alleged drunk driver. He helped police locate and arrest the man. DISURBANCE/FAMILY DISPUTE Seagate Drive, 24000 Block (7:43 p.m.) Dana Point Times March 11–17, 2011

“We do not want a shopping center on our beach, on land owned by the people. We’re not going to tolerate it.” But the optimism of Measure A opponents’ wasn’t shared by supporters who expressed concern Tuesday’s vote would have a chilling effect on economic development in San Clemente. “My concern is that we won’t have any quality development in San Clemente after this,” said Kathyrn Stovall-Dennis, a leader of the pro-Measure A movement. Council member Jim Evert, who supported Playa Del Norte, said he thought the decision was wrong. Growth in the city would stagnate as a result, he said. Fewer business owners would choose San Clemente either to renovate properties or to start their businesses, Evert said. “We have to figure out a way to overcome that in terms of bringing in new business and getting stores filled,” the councilman said. The issue stirred deep passions in San Clemente, despite its image as a laid-back beach town. The special election will cost the city between $151,500 and $169,500, according to City Clerk Joanne Baade. In the final weeks before Tuesday night’s vote, thousands of dollars had been

pumped into the campaign and funds for Measure A supporters outstripped those for opponents. Developer LAB Holdings spent at least $23,494 in the battle of North Beach. Another $45,000 was donated by a political action committee of the California Association of Realtors. Their opponents raised $25,343, according to their filings with the city clerk’s office. Tom Barnes, whose North Beach Green Alternative group advocates a park at North Beach, said the “No on A” group started slow but ran a solid campaign. He said the group, which relied on yard signs in residential neighborhoods, focused on educating voters that the city was selling the North Beach land and that the project had nothing to do with the Miramar. The vote means that the LAB must wait a year before resubmitting its project or come up with a substantially different plan. The area’s future is back in the hands of the City Council, though, because the city owns the land that was slated for development. The city envisions the North Beach area as a gateway into San Clemente. Eggleston said a restored Miramar Theater could serve that purpose.

“The city should restore the Miramar to its former glory as a multi-use playhouse,” he said. “That would be a gateway to San Clemente.” —Stacie N. Galang and Jonathan Volzke

A woman called in to report that her partner was trying beat her son. She then refused to answer any further questions, claiming that everything was under control and hung up, without giving her address.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Via Pacifica/Via Playa (9:27 a.m.) A man in a grey vehicle was reportedly passed out in front of a sober living house.

from church to find that her television was on. She had turned it off before leaving. This wasn’t the first time this has happened. Her ex-husband does not live in the area.

BURGLARY ALARM Via Monarca (4:32 a.m.) A man called to report that his neighbor’s alarm had been going off for the past 30 minutes. Nobody was home.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON Pacific Coast Highway, 33000 Block (2:39 p.m.) A man was walking around Laguna Beach, asking women for directions and hugs.

DEFRUADING AN INKEEPER Pacific Coast Highway/Violet Lantern (3:14 a.m.) A man threatened to kill a server at a restaurant. He left, without paying.

DISTURBANCE Pacific Coast Highway, 32000 Block (11:07 a.m.) A woman, who signed a lease agreement to rent a space, is being told she is actually not being hired. She refuses to return the lease.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON Pacific Coast Highway/Del Obispo (2:10 p.m.) A man was caught throwing items out of his car on to the highway. He was throwing sleeping bags and other items. DISTURBANCE Alicia Drive, 25000 Block (11:31 p.m.) A neighbor called to report banging noises and a woman’s loud screams of “stop” being heard from the house across the street. The woman was alone when police arrived. SUPSICIOUS PERSONS Doheny Park Road, 34000 Block (11:12 a.m.) A man was smoking marijuana near the electric box outside of a doughnut shop.

DISTURBANCE Pacific Coast Highway/Violet Lantern (2:02 a.m.) The manager at a restaurant got into a fight with a woman who did not want to stop drinking, even though it was after 2 a.m. The manager was trying to take her drink away. Saturday, March 5

BURGLARY ALARM/AUDIBLE Via Capri, 33000 Block (11:00 a.m.) A man called to report the neighbor’s alarm had been going off, but that they were out of town. DISTURBANCE Pacific Coast Highway, 34600 Block (3:52 p.m.) Two males were reported fighting in a parking lot in front of a restaurant. One was searing a purple shirt and blue sweats and the other a tan suit.

DISTURBANCE/FAMILY DISPUTE Doheny Park Road, 34000 Block (9:47 p.m.) A 17-year-old was being kicked out of the house by his drunken father. No weapons were involved. SUSPICIOUS PERSON Water Ridge Court, 0 Block (8:17 p.m.) A woman called to report that her exhusband was coming into her house when she was not there. She had returned

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SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

City Approves Funds for Distrito La Novia Analysis Capistrano residents who cast a ballot in the June referendum election on the mixedused Distrito La Novia project will have the benefit of an impartial analysis written by the City Attorney. The City Council this month agreed to pay the Orange County Registrar of Voters $12,129 to print an impartial analysis of the Distrito issue, along with a full text of the referendum. “I want as much information out there as possible,” Mayor Sam Allevato said. He said he reviewed the impartial analysis for a referendum underway in San Clemente and found it “just factual.” The council approved the expenditures 41, with Derek Reeve voting no. The election is already expected to cost the city $76,000 to $85,000, although the costs will be less if the state calls a special election.—JV

9-1-1 HANG-UP Pacific Coast Highway, 34000 Block (1:20 a.m.) A call came from a motel/hotel, but was disconnected. When the dispatcher called back, the night clerk said he had not called 911. When asked if he wanted to check to see if one of the rooms might have called—he left the phone off the hook, and never came back. 911 HANG-UP-WIRELESS Golden Lantern, 34000 Block (12:10 a.m.) A call came in from a cell phone. A man was heard asking a woman why she was upset. There was no answer. The location of the call was obtained through longitude and latitude within six meters.

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Eye on DP

News Bites

Compiled by Andrea Swayne

P rops , R ecognitions and M orsels of I nfo

CalRTA Meeting March 11 u The California Retired Teachers, almost

800 strong in South Orange County, has members from Dana Point, San Clemente, Laguna Niguel, Mission Viejo, Lake Forest, and Aliso Viejo. CalRTA meets four times a year to discuss issues important to retired educators. The next meeting is Friday, March 11, 9:30 a.m. at Clubhouse #2 in Laguna Woods. It will be an Irish Festival with appropriate food and entertainment. New members/visitors are welcome. Those wishing to attend should RSVP to Shirley at 949.248.8389. CalRTA meets every other month. The next meeting will be May 20 at Arroyo Trabuco Golf Club, 26772 Avery Parkway in Mission Viejo. For more information, log on to www.calrta.org.

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.

Curbside Recycling at Dana Hills High

Palisades Students Win at Destination Imagination

u Start saving your recyclable plastic bottles

u Two teams from Palisades Elementary

and cans for the Dana Hills High School Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) 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, March 19, 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 Dana Point Times March 11–17, 2011

won awards at the Destination Imagination regional tournament. Destination Imagination is a global organization aimed at sparking creativity in young students. The fifth grade team “Team Action” took first place in their category and were recognized as the only team to compete all of their competition tasks in full. Team Action members are Jack Goodwin (grade 4), Ethan Waters, Phoebe Lutz, Elexa Happy, Noah Villar, Reese Thomas and Chloe Twardy (grade 5). Team Managers are Denise and Michael Villar. The first/second grade “Rising Stars” team were awarded for their original play Big Bugs Bad Day. Team Rising Stars is made up of Austin

Richardson (grade 1), Riya Khetarpal, Clayton Newlan, Ella Villar and Eve Ruedisueli (grade 2). Team Managers are Riju Khetarpal and Katie Richardson. Both teams will be going to the State Finals in Oakhurst, California near Yosemite on April 9. Following the State Finals, Global Finals will be held in Tennessee—date to be announced.

Shelter is holding a low-cost canine licensing and vaccination clinic on Wednesday, March 30 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Prices are set at: $35 for micro-chips, $5 rabies vaccine, $10 Dhlp vaccine and $10 Bordatella vaccine. All licensing late fees will be waived. Call 949.492.1617 for licensing prices and other information. The shelter is located at 221 Avenida Fabricante in San Clemente.

South OC Gem & Mineral Society Meeting Scheduled u The South Orange County Gem & Min-

eral Society (SOCGEMS) will be holding their next meeting on Wednesday, March 16 at 7:30 p.m. in the multi-purpose room at the San Clemente Community Center, 100 Calle Seville. The meeting is free, open to the public and refreshments will be served. The featured speaker will be Elaine Ferrari-Stanthon speaking on the origins, history and craft of birthstones. Elaine is a resident of San Clemente and is an instructor at GIA, the Gemological Institute of America in Carlsbad. For more information, please visit www.socgems. org or call 949.361.7707.

Get Cell Phone Help at the Library u Baffled by your new cellular phone? Not

sure how to enter a new contact? Help is here. The Dana Point Library is offering free help every Wednesday from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. A volunteer will be available to answer questions regarding cell phones and other small computer devices like iPads and netbooks. The library is located at 33841 Niguel Road. For questions, please contact Adult Services Librarian Jennifer Johnson at 949.496.5517.

Low Cost Vaccination Clinic u The San Clemente-Dana Point Animal

The award-winning Rising Star Mind Surfers from Palisades Elementary (L to R) Riya Khetarpal, Austin Richardson, Clayton Newlan, Ella Villar and Eve Ruedisueli. Photo courtesy of Katie Richardson

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Don’t forget to vaccinate. Photo by Lauralyn Loynes

Wine and Book Signing Event at Stonehill Tavern u Locals and resort guests are invited to

Secrets Unveiled, an intimate event hosted at Michael Mina’s Stonehill Tavern restaurant at The St. Regis Monarch Beach resort featuring Rajat Parr, wine director of Mina Group, on March 30 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet and mingle with Mina and Parr while enjoying exceptional wines and inventive cuisine in honor of Parr’s new book Secrets of the Sommeliers: How to Think and Drink like the World’s Top Wine Professionals. Authored by Parr and journalist Jordan Mackay, the book is an exploration of the inside world of sommeliers, sharing their unique perspectives, extensive expertise and best stories Tickets are $85 per person and include wine tasting by Au Bon Climat, Michael Mina Wines, passed canapés and an evening with Mina and Parr. Signed copies of Secrets of the Sommeliers and MICHAEL MINA: The Cookbook will be available for purchase. For tickets call, Christina Mytinger at 949.234.3765 or email her at christina. mytinger@stregis.com.

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

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Dana Point Times, Vol. 4, Issue 10. 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.

PICKET FENCE MEDIA CEO Norb Garrett

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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 Pantea Ommi Mohajer, Madi Swayne

> Sergio Sanchez (San Juan Capistrano)

Finance Director > Mike Reed

Tom Blake, ‘Middle-Aged and Dating,’ Column Joins Dana Point Times O you: San Clemente resident Tom Blake, who has become an expert on middleaged dating through more than 15 years as a columnist for The Orange County Register and its weekly editions. During his career, Tom has written more than 2,200 newspaper articles from the male-point-of-view on dating and finding love after 50, and he’s also made multiple appearances on the Today Show and Good Morning America. He has been a keynote speaker at several

CONTRIBUTORS Tawnee Prazak, Christina Scannapiego, David Zimmerle

OPERATIONS

PUBLISHER’S NOTE: By Norb Garrett

ur volunteer columnists play an important role at the Dana Point Times. We rely on folks involved in the community, politics and schools to bring fresh views and voices to our Norb Garrett pages and we’re appreciative of the work they do for us. This week, we’re proud to add someone who might be a familiar face to many of

SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller, George Mackin, Rebecca Nordquist

Sales Associate > Angela Edwards > Buddy Purel

AARP national events. He has published three books on dating after 50: Middle Aged and Dating Again; Finding Love After 50, How to Begin. Where to Go. What to Do; and How 50 Couples Found Love After 50. His www.FindingLoveAfter50.com website is No. 1 on Google for the keyword phrases “Finding Love After 50” and “Love After 50.” Tom has an MBA from the University of Michigan and a bachelor’s degree from

ONLINE POLL Log on to www.danapointtimes.com to vote on our special two-week poll on the 40th Annual Festival of Whales. DePauw University. Tom has owned and operated Tutor and Spunky’s Deli in Dana Point for 23 years. He continues to manage the business on a daily basis. Tom’s column is interactive and he relies on sharing stories and dating tales from readers. Middle-aged or not, happy and content in your relationship or still searching for “the one,” we hope you’ll enjoy Tom’s musings in this and future editions of the DP Times.

ALL HANDS, AHOY: By Beverli Jinn

Green at Last! Green at Last! Green at Last! E verybody has a dream. Martin Luther King’s isn’t the only one. To Love and to be Loved (note the capital L) is probably the most universal dream. Almost everyone longs for Love. Interestingly, however, this is probably the least likely dream to come true, perhaps because there’s very little we can do about it. It seems that the harder we try in our quest for Love, the less likely it is that we’ll find it. There are six or seven billion other dreams, at least one for every member of the human race. Some are as basic as a dream of having enough to eat or clean water to drink. Some people dream of having a job or of a safe place to sleep at night. Lots of people dream about good health. Along with my own longing for Love, I have a personal dream that beckons relentlessly, one that summons me whenever I’m not distracted by Life itself. I dream of a healthy, replenishing ocean, not just in Dana Point and Laguna Beach and San Clemente but everywhere on Planet Earth. That’s why I began this biweekly column, “All Hands, Ahoy.” Not that I, or several

Dana Point Times March 11–17, 2011

of us, or even everyone who lives in these coastal cities can save the oceans. It’s this toned down dream, this doable dream, this All Hands dream that I pursue. It’s this dream of Beverli Jinn dos and don’ts—don’t use plastic bags, don’t dispose of e-waste in our landfill, don’t send irrigation water into our storm drains, do recycle glass and paper and green waste—that sustains me. So, here’s the plan. Once a year everyone in South County will gather in Heritage Park for one hour, between 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. This year it will happen on Saturday, September 24. There will be no admission fee, no speeches, no music, and no sales. It will simply be 100,000 volunteer members of our ecological crew. All will be there to make a statement that they will do as much as they can to keep our ocean healthy. They’ll talk to one another about pollution: Insecticides and pesticides and oil and chemicals of all kinds. They’ll talk about properly disposing of their trash

and recyclables. They’ll talk about global warming and toxic emissions. Heck, maybe they’ll even talk about dinosaurs. They’ll resolve to increase their efforts to keep their own home, their own neighborhood, their own city environmentally pristine. “But,” you ask, “isn’t a hundred thousand a bit optimistic?” “Well,” I say to that, “the number is symbolic. Martin Luther King delivered his I Have a Dream speech on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial to 200,000 people. Maybe, in the amphitheater of Heritage Park we’ll get only 100,000.” I picture it and hang on to the dream. “A thousand maybe.” They’ll want to bring their cup of coffee, to gaze at the harbor and the sea beyond, and to talk with others who share their determination to do everything they can to free, not just Willie, but the ocean itself. Parking is likely to be a problem. I mean, what’re we gonna do with thousands of cars? (Okay, I know I’m getting crazy now, but let’s imagine.) Imagine people leaving their car in the harbor and walking up the steps to the park. Imagine car shar-

Page 8

ing. Imagine parking on city streets or in business parking lots for an hour. Imagine dropping your family or friends off at the park and then driving home for another load—and doing it again. (So, you’ve spent the entire hour driving. Do you suppose you don’t get credit for that?) Most of all, imagine the adrenal charge you’ll experience there in the crowd, your mouth agape, as you suck in the energy of a thousand kindred souls. I want to hug somebody just thinking about it. One other thing. When the last of this crew has gone home, Heritage Park will be cleaner than it had been when they arrived. E-mail me. I’m serious. Let me know that you’re serious, too. Let me know that you’re spreading the word to your family and friends: We have a dream. All hands, ahoy! Jinn welcomes her readers’ feedback via email at allhandsahoy@hotmail.com. 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.

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

ONE OF SONOMA’S FINEST: ENKIDU WINES 5:30 p.m.-9 p.m. San Clemente Wine Company welcomes Phil Staehle of Enkidu Wines who will be presenting some wineryonly, new releases and raffling off a few bottles. Tasting fee is $15 for seven wines with cheese, crackers and chocolate. 212 1/2 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.429.7067, www.scwinecompany.com.

THE OREO DIVAS 7:30 p.m.-11:30 p.m. Renaissance. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.renaissance-danapoint.com. CINDERELLA 7 p.m. Students at JSerra Catholic High School are preparing for a musical production of America’s favorite fairytale, Cinderella. Other dates: March 12, 18, 19 at 7 p.m. and March 20 at 2 p.m. Tickets $15 advance, $17 at the door. 26351 Junipero Serra Road San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.9307, www.jserra.org. BRANDI SMITH & MICK TARAS 8 p.m.-11 p.m. Live music at Salt Creek Grille. 32802 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.661.7799, www.saltcreekgrille.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. FRANK SINATRA TRIBUTE WITH JOHN SLOAN 7:30 p.m.-11 p.m. Live music at The Vintage Steak House. 26701-B Verdugo St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.661.3407, www.thevintagesteakhouse.com.

saturday

BUCK-A-BAG SALE FOR CHILDREN’S BOOKS 9 a.m.-1 p.m. The San Clemente Friends of the Library holds a special book sale: Purchase a bag of children’s books for a buck. 242 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.276.6342, www.ocpl.org.

Dana Point Times March 11–17, 2011

GO.SEE.DO FESTIVAL OF WHALES PART TWO Dana Point has celebrated the annual migration of gray whales from Arctic waters back south to their warm summer breeding and calving lagoons in Baja each year for the past four decades. This year’s 40th annual edition of Dana Point Festival of Whales continues with two more days of whale watching and fun at Dana Point Harbor on Saturday and Sunday, March 12 and 13. On Saturday, the second annual Mickey Muñoz Mongoose Cup stand-up paddle (SUP) relay races and Watermen’s Expo begins at 9 a.m. at Baby Beach. The Mongoose Cup website can be found at www.mongoosecup. eventbrite.com. Beach entries will be available beginning at 7:30 a.m. Sunday highlights include the Grunion Run 5K, 10K and Kids’ Fun Run through Doheny State Beach. The entry fee is $35 to $40 and proceeds benefit the Doheny State Beach Interpretive Association (DSBIA). On-site registration opens at 6 a.m. Add $5 for same-day entry. Visit www.festivalofwhalesgrunionrun.com, call 949.716.4558 or email goldenlegsracingca@gmail.com for more information. Then from noon to 4:30 p.m. the Festival wraps up with a concert at Baby Beach on a floating stage, featuring Steel Parade, The Eliminators and The Surftunes. BBQ and Spirits Garden (for those over 21 with a valid driver’s license) will be available. For a full schedule of events, log on to www.danapointtimes.com to download the official event program.—Andrea Swayne

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. WHALE WATCHING & LECTURE SERIES 9 a.m.4 p.m. As part of the Festival of Whales, Dana Wharf hosts whale-watching cruises every hour; adults $29, kids $19. Also: Dana Wharf hosts a special Marine Mammal Lecture and two-hour whale watching catamaran cruise starting at 10 a.m. Call for more info and reservations. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com. STROKE SCREENING Make an appointment to get screened for your risk of stroke at Mission Hospital on March 12 or May 14. More info: 800.880.8027, www.sjhsstroke.com. O2 WELLNESS FUNDRAISER 12 p.m. O2 Wellness holds an event to raise money for Best Day Foundation by offering whole-body vibration, exercise with oxygen therapy, ionic foot detox, infrared sauna, body balancing and more. 3551 Camino Mira Costa, Ste. C, San Clemente, www.bestdayfoundation.org. FAMILY STYLE 7:30 p.m.-11:30 p.m. Live band at Renaissance. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.renaissance-danapoint.com. THEY CAME FROM OUTER SPACE 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Casa Romantica’s NASA Space Exploration Exhibit on display featuring space stories, photos, equipment and more. Adults $5. Kids 12 and under $3. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org. STARS OF TOMORROW FINALISTS LIVE 7 p.m. Local high school performers sing in a competition for scholarship money at the Laguna Hills Community Center. Tickets $15 advance, $20 door. 25555 Alicia Pkwy., Laguna Hills, 949.613.7840, www.southcoastsingers.org. ST. PATRICK’S DAY GRAND BALL, DINNER, DANCE AND SHOW 6 p.m. Irish Party at the Atrium Hotel with authentic music, dinner, dance performances and more. Tickets $100. 18700 MacArthur Blvd., Irvine, 949.489.1172, www.irishfair.org. BIG BAD VOODOO DADDY 8 p.m. Concert at The Coach House also with The New FBI / Graceland Mafia. Tickets $25. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com. Page 10

sunday

FREE BRIDAL SHOW 12 p.m.-4 p.m. A free bridal show for those shopping for a wedding location, designs, catering, florists and more at Marbella Country Club. 30800 Golf Club Drive, San Juan Capistrano, 818.640.1801, www.americangolf.com. www.countryclubreceptions.com.

GARY ROACH AND WILL HURD ACOUSTIC LIVE 8:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m. Live music at OC Tavern every Sunday night in the OCT Room. 2369 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.542.8877, www.octavern.com. WHALE’S TALE SAILING ADVENTURE 2 p.m.-4:30 p.m. The Ocean Institute offers a tall ship sail on the Spirit of Dana Point to gain new insight on man’s evolving relationship with the ocean and whales. Tickets $40 adults, $23 children (member discounts). 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org. GRUNION RUN STOP FOR KIDS 7 a.m. Special educational activity event for kids at the Ocean Institute in conjunction with the 40th annual Festival of Whales. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org. 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. The artwork is for sale and proceeds go to schools. 100 N. Calle Seville, San Clemente, 949.492.7175, www.scartgallery.com.

monday

ABOLITIONIST EVENT WITH WINE & CHOCOLATE 7 p.m. The Cellar presents an event with the screening of Dark Side of Chocolate. Learn about the link between slavery and your favorite chocolate, then experience a wine and fair trade chocolate tasting. $15 per person. Limited seating, reservations recommended. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com.

(Cont. on page 14) THIS WEEK’S WEATHER 3.11 Sunny H: 71° L: 48° 3.12 Mostly Sunny H: 69° L: 47° 3.13 Sunny H: 70° L: 47°

3.14 Mostly Cloudy H: 67° L: 45° 3.15 Sunny H: 68° L: 47° 3.16 Partly Cloudy H: 70° L: 48° 3.17 Partly Cloudy H: 67° L: 49° www.danapointtimes.com

GETTING OUT (Cont. from page 10) Comedy Show 9:30 p.m. Comedians get some laughs at Hennessey’s every Monday night. Free. 34111 La Plaza, Dana Point, 949.488.0121, www.hennesseystavern.com.

DP Times Restaurant Spotlight

Red Velvet Asían Café

$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.

tuesday

Ben Powell 7 p.m.–11 p.m. Drinks, food and live music at The Cellar. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com.

After-School Club 3:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Group for kids 5 and older at the library; sign-ups required. 242 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3493, www.ocpl.org. Trivia Tuesdays 6:30 p.m. On the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month participate in fun, competitive and educational games with prizes, with happy hour all night at Irons In The Fire Restaurant at The San Clemente Municipal Golf Course. 150 Avenida Magdalena, San Clemente, 949.542.3900. 2-for-1 Tuesdays Half price on all fishing trips, whale watching and other adventures at Dana Wharf every Tuesday. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com. Poul Pedersen 6:30 p.m. Acoustic artist at Renaissance. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.renaissance-danapoint.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.

wednesday

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.

31654 Rancho Viejo Road. Ste. D, San Juan Capistrano, 949.488.7893, www.redvcafe.com Best Known For: Black peppered beef Most Popular Item: Asian chicken wings San Juan Capistrano has a delight for the senses of the Asian food lover. Red Velvet Asian Café offers an Asian-fusion array, part Chinese, part Vietnamese, all delicious. The restaurant offers a daily lunch special, Monday–Friday from 11 a.m.–4 p.m., $5.95 for lunch bowls (orange chicken, Mongolian beef, stir fry vegetables and more). Add another dollar, and your lunch comes with a large soda or iced tea. If you want to order off the regular menu, you can start with their famous Asian chicken wings, spiced up with jalapeños. Other items Photo by Pantea Ommi Mohajer include Pho Ga (great on a cold and rainy day), Thai steak salad, honey chicken and sweet and sour fish. The kids menu includes a drink, main dish and dessert for $5.25. They also offer a great variety of vegetarian choices, as well as a “Create Your Own” special, for the hidden chef in all of us. On your way out, grab one of their specialty teas to go; they even have a “Red Velvet” boba tea—a red tea with tapioca. Price Range: $5.95 (lunch menu)–$15. Reservations: Not necessary

Payment: Cash and credit card Hours: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday–Saturday, closed on Sundays

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

Hart & Soul 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Live ’30s and ’40s American music at Adele’s. 2600 Avenida Del Presidente, San Clemente, 949.366.1121, www.adelesatthesanclementeinn.com. 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. Comedy Night 9:30 p.m. Your chance to sing at Molly Bloom’s Irish Bar & Restaurant. 2391 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.218.0120, www.mollybloomspub.com. Dupp Brothers 8 p.m. Live “hippy hillbilly” music at The Rib Joint. 34294 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.661.9500.

ON STAGE

Phair Warning BY A.J. Bardzilowski

ver the last 17 years, Liz Phair has hypnotized the world with a mind-blowing debut, shape-shifted into super pop star and concocted an award-winning score for the 90210 reboot. To say her lyrics are sharp and edgy is the understatement of all understatements. She doesn’t hold back and that is a huge reason this talented artist has managed to continue to reinvent herself over the last decade-anda-half and move forward on her own terms. Funstyle and the bonus disc of demos from Girlysound is a significant collection of the new and the old. Will these 21 songs make up the majority of your set at the Coach House? I am playing songs from all of my albums in my live show, all the faves and a few wild cards. We like to rock pretty much all the way through and playing the songs everybody knows the words to seems to make those on stage and those in the audience happiest of all. How does surfing fit into your life now? Some of the best surf spots on the West Coast are right down the road in San Clemente. Will you have time to catch a wave before the show? Now that I know about your superlative break, I will quiz my surf instructor/therapist/guru to see if he wants to make the

Dana Point Times March 11–17, 2011

By Pantea Ommi Mohajer

trip. I really couldn’t bring myself to buy the full winter suit (my Bond girl halfy was sooo cute) so I’ve been sitting it out since December. What projects or endeavors are you currently involved with that you would like our readers to know about? In Plain Sight, starring Mary McCormack, has started up again and we’re back in the studio Courtesy photo whipping up our magic cues. We’ll also be scoring a new show for ABC Family called Great State of Georgia, created by Jennifer Weiner. I love making music and working with smart, funny people. The show will rock. There is no doubt of that. Visit her website at www.lizphair.com and download Oh, Bangladesh for free. Better yet, buy the entire CD and you won’t be sorry. Liz Phair will play The Coach House on Sunday March 13. Tickets: $25. Doors open at 5 p.m. Show starts at 7 p.m. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com. DP Page 14

thursday

Los NiÑos Guild’s Bingo Luncheon San Clemente’s Los Ninos Guild of CHOC has their annual Bingo Luncheon at Talega Golf Club in San Clemente with lots of games and great prizes. Call for time and info: 949.230.4888. 990 Avenida Talega, San Clemente.

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. Brandi Smith & Reggie Ashley 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Acoustic music at Salt Creek Grille. 32802 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.661.7799, www.saltcreekgrille.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. Close Enough 7:30 p.m.-11 p.m. Everything from classic rock to blues to dance music at Renaissance. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.renaissance-danapoint.com. 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.

UPCOMING: SATURDAY, MARCH 19 St. Joseph’s Day and the Return of the Swallows 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Mission San Juan Capistrano presents an all-day festival filled with fun, food, song, dance, story-telling, special speakers and more to celebrate the return of the swallows and more. Admission $5–$9. 26801 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com. *For our full calendar, visit the “Event Calendar” at www.danapointtimes.com. Have an event? Send your listing to events@danapointtimes.com www.danapointtimes.com

DP LIVING

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

DS aannCale mPoe ni te nt

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

On Life and Love After 50: By Tom Blake

Our First Date M

y name is Tom Blake. I live in San Clemente and my day job is in Dana Point. For 17 years, I’ve written newspaper columns about “Finding Love after 50” for another newspaper in town. My first column was published July 4, 1994. Two women editors gave me my first break. I had just gone through a divorce and thought dating would be a snap. It turned out to be difficult, and I wrote about the frustrations of a single guy in his 50s trying to date again. I complained and whined that younger women wouldn’t go out with me and women my age expected me to pay for dates. The editors felt that the single women of Orange County would have a field day taking pot shots at my woeis-me message. They were right. When my first column ran, a woman said: “Who is this sniveling puke?” Another stated, “Get the boy a crying towel.” Women tell me my writing has become less controversial and mellower since I started dating my partner Greta, who was a special education teacher at R.H. Dana Elementary in Dana Point before she retired. To survive, writers are wise to keep their day jobs. I’ve done that. In 1988, I opened Tutor and Spunky’s Deli in Dana Point. It’s now located in the small shopping center at the intersection of Pacific Coast Highway and Blue Lantern. Much of my column material comes from deli customers age 50 and older who find themselves unexpectedly single and face similar frustrations as the ones I faced. Writing about love after 50 has been good to me. I’ve published three books on the topic and have been interviewed by Matt Lauer on the Today Show and Diane Sawyer on Good Morning America—very humbling for a guy who earns his living making sandwiches. Over the last few years, the economy has taken its toll on the newspaper industry. Major daily papers have filed for bankruptcy or closed. For nine years, I’ve curiously watched the Times’ group of newspapers buck the trend—beginning in 2002 when The Capistrano Dispatch was first published. My eyes opened wider when the San Clemente Times was added in 2006 and the Dana Point Times in 2008. Just outside the front door of Tutor and Spunky’s, there is a newspaper rack that holds the Dana Point Times. I’ve watched as my customers grab a copy and read the paper while having lunch. I ask them what they like about it. “The Times is large and easy to read. Plus, the local news Dana Point Times March 11–17, 2011

Tom Blake at his Dana Point deli, Tutor and Spunky’s. Photo by Jasmine Smith

coverage is extensive and always fresh,” they have said. After 17 years of writing for a major newspaper, one has to think twice about giving up that gig. But I wanted to have a stronger voice in the communities where I live, work, attend movies and dine out—Dana Point, San Clemente, and San Juan Capistrano. I’ve watched as the Times’ group of newspapers has gained the respect of the locals in those cities. Finally, I said to the publisher, “I want to write for your newspapers.” As it turns out, senior editor Jonathan Volzke was my editor at the other paper years ago. He’s a real pro. It will be fun to be reunited. My topic will be “On Life and Love After 50.” Sure, we’ll focus on singles—ages 50-80, and the issues and challenges they face—but we’ll cover more than that. As interesting topics present themselves, I’ll write about them also. It amazes me that while my topic is about being single later in life, nearly 35 percent of my readers are married. Many tell me that reading about the hardPage 16

ships singles endure encourages them to appreciate their spouses more. But I can’t do it without you, the reader. I need your questions, comments and stories about life and love after 50. Email me at tompblake@gmail.com, and I promise I will respond within a few hours or at least within a day or so. Who knows? We might feature parts of your story in a column. I’m blessed to have this opportunity. Let’s have some fun along the way. After all, we live in one of the greatest areas in the world. Send me an email. I can’t wait to get started. For dating after 50 information, see my website at www. FindingLoveAfter50.com. Tom Blake is a San Clemente resident and Dana Point business owner who has authored three books on middleaged dating. DP 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.

www.danapointtimes.com

DP LIVING

Sun and Fun Weekend one of the 40th Annual Dana Point Festival of Whales saw great weather and family fun By Andrea Swayne Dana Point Times

isitors to weekend one—March 5 and 6—of the 40th Annual Dana Point Festival of Whales were treated to postcard-perfect weather and a plethora of fun activities to delight all the senses. The Festival kicked off on Saturday with a parade down Pacific Coast Highway. An enthusiastic crowd lined the street to greet parade entries including marching bands from Dana Hills High, San Clemente High and Camp Pendleton, active duty Marines, local dignitaries, school and community groups and, of course the crowd favorite, giant helium balloons. Following the parade, many made their way to the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce Block Party at La Plaza Park as well as the many whale watching excursions and attractions at the harbor. On Sunday, crowds gathered for a dedication of a new public art piece “Tails of Majestic Migration” in front of the OC Sailing and Events Center near Baby Beach, the Ocean Awareness Day booths, Dana Point Woman’s Club rubber ducky race, tasty BBQ, live music, the Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary Diamond Dig and more. The Festival continues this weekend with plenty more to see and do. And it looks as if the weather will cooperate once again. Log on to www.danapointtimes.com to see a colorful photo slideshow of last weekend’s festivities in the “IN FOCUS” section of the home page. While you’re there, download the official Festival of Whales event program and head on out for more fun and—knock on wood—more sun, at the beautiful OC Dana Point Harbor. DP

Dana Point Times March 11–17, 2011

(Above) KTLA Meteorologist Henry DiCarlo served as the Festival of Whales Parade Celebrity Grand Marshal. He and his family rode in a sky-blue classic Cadillac. Photo by Andrea Swayne (Left) Patricia Bates, Orange County Fifth District Supervisor, officiated at the dedication of the new sculpture/mosaic “Tails of Majestic Migration” at the OC Sailing & Events Center. Photo by Frank Ritenour (Bottom L to R) The Dana Point 5th Marine Regiment Support Group sponsored dunk tank at the La Plaza Park “Block Party.” Terry Rifkin poses with President Pete Hammer who dressed in drag for his stint in the dunk tank. Photo by Andrea Swayne The big bass drum of the 1st Marine Division marching band from Camp Pendleton. Photo by Madi Swayne George Liblin Jr. drives a 1902 horse-drawn steam fire engine restored by Dave Hubert. Liblan’s passenger is none other than City Councilman Steven Weinberg. Photo by Andrea Swayne Pat Rymsza and Brenda Hutchins of the Church Mice Square Dance Club get ready to march—and dance—in the parade. Photo by Madi Swayne

Page 18

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

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

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

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

SIGNS

Junk Removal

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

CAFE - DELI

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 Jeweler 32860 Pacific Coast Hwy. #4, Dana Point Jeweler 949.489.1165 www.SmokeysHouseofBBQ.com 24845 Del Prado, www.danapointjeweler.com

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

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 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 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.

LOST & FOUND Found: Silver Tiffany Bracelet in front of El Torito, Dana Point Harbor, 3/7/2011, Festival of the Whales. Describe and it’s yours. 949.498.1962.

REAL ESTATE Selling your house? Have a rental available? Looking for a roommate? DP Times classifieds get results. Submit your ad online today! www.danapointtimes.com

Dana Point Times March 11–17, 2011

Page 21

www.danapointtimes.com

SPORTS

& OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES & MORE

DS aannCale Pmoe ni te nt

5 BEST BETS GIRLS LACROSSE

HOCKEY

BASKETBALL

Dolphins vs. Dolphins, Dana Hills High March 12, 2 p.m.

BOYS LACROSSE

Dolphins vs. Dolphins, Dana Hills High March 12, 5:30 p.m.

Coyotes vs. Ducks, Honda Center March 13, 5 p.m.

Magic vs. Lakers, Staples Center March 14, 7:30 p.m.

The Dolphins are primed to host Paciﬁc Palisades in a non-league game that will decide who in fact is the bigger ﬁsh.

After the boys team wraps up its game, the Lady Dolphins will hit the ﬁeld to also host Paciﬁc Palisades.

Spend your Sunday near the ice as the Anaheim Ducks face off against one of its premier Western Conference foes.

Kick those Monday blues to the curb and hit the road to welcome the Lakers at home against Orlando.

Info: www.ducks.nhl.com

Info: www.nba.com/lakers

Info: www.dhhs.net

GIVE SUP A CHANCE

Info: www.dhhs.net

SPORTS NEWS FROM DANA HILLS HIGH SCHOOL

By David Zimmerle

Dana Point Times March 11–17, 2011

Dana Hills’ boys tennis team gets ready for a key match against Aliso Niguel at the Laguna Niguel Racquet Club.

Dolphin Report

By Andrea Swayne Dana Point Times

as the sight of stand-up paddlers (SUP) gliding through the calm water outside the breakers or on calm harbor waters piqued your interest in trying it out for yourself? Maybe you have intentions of giving it a shot “someday” but don’t really know of a good place to go to get your feet wet. Head out to the Dana Point Harbor this weekend. As part of the 40th Annual Dana Point Festival of Whales, the harbor will be SUP headquarters as the 2nd Annual Mickey Muñoz Mongoose Cup (SUP relay races) and Watermen Expo take center stage at Baby Beach beginning at 9 a.m. on Saturday, March 12. 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. Beach entries will be available beginning at 7:30 a.m. Participants will receive a commemorative Mongoose Cup T-shirt, barbecue lunch and the opportunity to meet and paddle with surf icon Mickey Muñoz. For more information about the Mongoose Cup, log on to www.mongoosecup.eventbrite.com. Not quite ready to enter the Mongoose Cup yet? Beginners wishing to try out SUP are invited to attend Westwind Sailing’s 45minute on-the-water clinics held each hour on the hour. The cost is $10 for ages 12 and over (12- to 14-year-olds must be accompanied by and adult). SUP clinics run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will be available both Saturday and Sunday. Westwind is located at 34451 Ensenada Place at the OC Sailing & Events Center, also at Baby Beach. If you’d like to try SUP on a little quieter day, after the Festival crowds have gone, Westwind offers a full schedule of SUP classes for all abilities. Westwind Sailing developed their SUP program three years ago—just as the world began to catch on to how beneficial and cool the sport really is—in order to encourage participation in boating related exercise. The

BOYS TENNIS

Wolverines vs. Dolphins, LN Racquet Club March 16, 3 p.m.

WRESTLING • Bryan Seefried was the lone Dana Hills wrestler to advance to the CIF State Meet last weekend at Rabobank Arena in Bakersfield. Earning a first round bye in the 145 pound division, Seefried then went on to face Chase Boontjer from Foothill High School in Palo Cedro, Calif.

Both senior wrestlers went toe-to-toe before Seefried lost by fall at 3:28. Boontjer went on to take fi fth place behind Jake Elliott (first place, Oakmont), Jesse Baldazo (second, Liberty), Damien Arredondo (third, Liberty) and Haydn Scharbrough (fourth, Glendora).

SCOREBOARD SOCCER

Mickey Muñoz paddles in last year’s Mongoose Cup. Photo courtesy of Dana Point Historical Society

nature of the sport includes balancing on a paddleboard with basic paddling strokes, core fitness and aerobic exercise—perfect for the active ocean lover. This year, they welcomed a new SUP fitness instructor, Marc Carlisle to their team and they invite you to join their great group of paddlers who weekly enjoy the harbor atmosphere and salt air on their fleet of 11 NSP soft top epoxy boards. Scheduled classes for kids, teens and adults, private and semi-private lessons are available. They also have openings in their Spring Break youth day camps. Call 949.492.3035 or check www.westwindsailing.com for group lessons, fitness class schedule, fees and more. The folks at Westwind remind first-timers to wear comfortable, quick-dry sports attire (or a wetsuit) and sunscreen and bring water or a sports drink, towel, a change of clothes and be ready to have fun. DP —Christina Scannapiego contributed to this article.

(Back row, left to right) Coach Randy Dodge, Courtney Assumma (Pepperdine), Callan Parra (UPenn), Kimberly Marshall (Wake Forest), Natalie Werner (TCU), Haley Rosen (Stanford), Lauren Bohaboy (Notre Dame), Haley Guerrero (UCSB), Emily Roth (Northern Arizona), Emily Mardon (CSU San Bernardino), Mikhaila Bowden (Boise State), Coach Dido, (middle row) Ashley Harris (Rhode Island), Amanda Dudley (LMU), Kaitlin Dickmann (Berkeley), Kelly McCormick (Ole Miss), (front row) Desiree Parmenter (Sioux Falls), Amy Alber (CSU San Marcos), Mackenzie Cochran (Fresno State), Torey Markowitz (UCLA), Leigh Edwards (Texas A&M), Elena Gianotas (MIT), Allie Gordon (Rutgers), Malia Tano (Northern Arizona), Kelly Whelan (Northern Arizona). Courtesy photo

DANA HILLS’ DICKMANN, MCCORMICK AND WHELAN PART OF SOCAL BLUES ROSTER NOW SET FOR COLLEGE PLAY The Southern California Blues Soccer Club “So Cal Blues” recently announced that 34 of its 2011 high school graduates have signed with colleges across the nation to play soccer. Following is a partial list of players who have been selected as collegiate caliber soccer players due to their proven excellent athletic abilities. Their dedication, hard work and commitment to being the best soccer player they can be has earned each of them this rewarding accomplishment. In recognition of these outstanding achievements, So Cal Blues held the 2011 College Signing Day Event on Monday, February 21, at JSerra Catholic High School in San Juan Capistrano to honor and recognize the following local players: Kaitlin Dickmann (Dana Hills, UC Berkeley), Katie Linehan (JSerra, Trinity Christian), Kelly McCormick (Dana Hills, Mississippi), Taylor Olson (Laguna Hills, Undecided) and Kelly Whelan (Dana Hills, Northern Arizona). SoCal Blues ofﬁcials say they are extremely proud of all their So Cal Blues 2011 high school graduates and their outstanding accomplishment. “They are each people of the highest human potential and outstanding representatives of our club, their community, their families, and above all themselves,” said director of coaching Tad Bobak. The Southern California Blues Soccer Club “So Cal Blues” offers instruction to the serious player with every tool necessary to reach her personal potential in the sport of soccer. If you would like more information about The Southern California Blues Soccer Club visit www.scblues.com or contact Jon Jezierski at 619.889.9322. Log on to www.danapointtimes.com to see the complete list of signed athletes. Page 22