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VOLUME 5, ISSUE 5

A Jewel in the Rough The city’s revitalization plan for Doheny Village moves forward E Y E O N D P/ PAG E 4

www.danapointtimes.com

The downtown area of Capistrano Beach known as Doheny Village is the subject of a revitalization project now in the planning stages. Photo courtesy ROMA Design Group/Tom Lamb Photography

Volunteers Sought for Doris Walker Memorial Ad Hoc Committee

SONGS Investigates Water Leak

Capo Beach Surfer Jacob Davis Wins in Santa Cruz

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EYE ON DP

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

D a n a Po i nt

City and Business Calendar SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 4

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 7

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10

Craft Fair and Farmers Market 9 a.m.-3 p.m. La Plaza Park, 34111 La Plaza Street. On the first Saturday of each month the Dana Point Farmers Market hours are extended to 3 p.m. to include a craft fair. Admission is free. For more information or to inquire about purchasing a booth for $25, please call 949.573.5033 or 951.271.0669 or see www.danapoint. org. Crafters may rent multiple booths.

VFW Veterans Assistance 1:30 p.m.3 p.m. Dana Point VFW Post 9934 is offering free veterans’ benefits and veteran services membership assistance at the community center, 34052 Del Obispo, 949.275.3142, www.vfwpost9934.org

Dana Point Symphony 7:30 p.m. The Dana Point Symphony kicks off its season with performances of Mozart Overture to Marriage of Figaro, Brahms Double Concerto and Mozart Symphony No. 40 featuring Mira Khomik on violin and Bronwyn Banerdt, cello. A reception with art by Paul Bond will follow. Tickets are $8-$12. St. Edward’s Church, 33926 Calle La Primavera, 301.832.0388, www.danapointsymphony.com

City Council Meeting 6 p.m. City Council Chambers, 33282, Golden Lantern, 949.248.3501, www.danapoint.org

DANA POINT’S TOP 5 HOTTEST TOPICS

What’s Up With... 1

… a SONGS Shutdown ?

THE LATEST: A precautionary shutdown of Unit 3 at San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station started Tuesday afternoon when sensors detected a water leak in one of the unit’s steam generator tubes, according to plant operator Southern California Edison. As of Wednesday, SCE was planning for the inspection of the steam generator, the repairs and the process of restarting the unit. SCE Spokesman Gil Alexander said the water leak that is “best characterized as extremely small” and “mildly radioactive.” “It never did and still doesn’t pose a risk to workers or the public,” he said. The leak occurred in the closed loop of water that circulates from the reactor, where it’s heated, to the bottom of the steam generator and back to the reactor. Unit 2 was already offline for planned upgrades. Gary Headrick of San Clemente Green said the latest incident is another reason SONGS should close. WHAT’S NEXT: The reactor shuts down quickly, but the system cools slowly, Alexander said. “We’re cooling it down before workers can go inside and begin the inspection process,” he said. Inspection was expected to start Thursday. FIND OUT MORE: See sanonofresafety.org for more about those trying to shut down the plant and www.songscommunity.com for SCE information. —Stacie N. Galang

…Norm Denton?

THE LATEST: Longtime Dana Point Planning Commissioner Norm Denton announced he will run for a seat on City Council in the November election. Dana Point Times February 3–9, 2012

A press release sent out by Denton’s campaign on February 1 says he has already garnered the support of several community leaders. Denton announced his decision to run is partially based on a desire to utilize his Planning Commission experience in important upcoming project implementations expected to take place during the next few years—projects Denton says, “… will define the legacy of our town.” Denton has served on the Planning Commission since 1996. “I’d like to bring my experience as a Planning Commissioner and businessman to the City Council level to make sure we stay on course while remaining fiscally responsible,” said Denton in his statement. WHAT’S NEXT: Denton will hold a joint campaign kick-off party with incumbent Councilman Scott Schoeffel on February 28 at the Dana Point Yacht Club. Mayor Lara Anderson will term out in November. Councilman Scott Schoeffel will be up for reelection to a second term. FIND OUT MORE: www.NormDenton.com —Andrea Swayne

…a Doris Walker Memorial?

THE LATEST: The City of Dana Point Arts and Culture Commission is looking for interested community members to join an ad hoc committee for the development of a Doris Walker Memorial. Doris Walker-Smith (known professionally as Doris I. Walker) founder of the Dana Point Historical Society, awardwinning author, historian and Dana Point Times columnist, died October 31 from injuries sustained in a house fire that also claimed the life of her husband of 10 years, Jack Pierson Smith.

WHAT’S NEXT: Those interested in volunteering to serve on the committee should email a brief letter of interest to Kevin Evans, Director of Community Services and Parks, at kevans@danapoint.org. Applicants may also mail or drop off a letter addressed to: Dana Point City Hall, Attn: Kevin Evans, 33282 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, CA 92629. The deadline to apply is Monday, February 13. The Doris Walker Ad Hoc Committee will work on the location, concept ideas and process for a memorial plan to present to the Arts and Culture Commission. FIND OUT MORE: For more information, call Evans at 949.248.3557. —AS

…Animal Control Ordinances?

THE LATEST: City Council on Tuesday, during a special joint meeting with the Planning Commission, unanimously approved a second reading and adoption of two ordinances amending Title 10 animal control, welfare and licensing requirements in the Dana Point Municipal Code. Ordinance 12-01 prohibits the sale of cats and dogs by commercial establishments. Although the city had no pet shops selling dogs and cats at the time the ordinance was introduced by Mayor Lara Anderson, she said the move was intended to bring Dana Point in line with other Southern California cities fighting pet overpopulation via such bans. Ordinance 12-02 is a spay/neuter rule that will apply to cats or dogs picked up by animal control two times within a threeyear period. Exceptions for animals that cannot undergo sterilization due to physical conditions are built into the ordinance. About a half dozen other California

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cities have similar regulations requiring spaying and neutering of all pets. WHAT’S NEXT: Both ordinances would take effect on March 1, 30 days following the vote. FIND OUT MORE: Visit www.danapointtimes.com to read the full ordinances. —AS

…The Toll Road?

THE LATEST: An extension of the Foothill South Tollroad from Rancho Santa Margarita to San Juan Capistrano could be in place by fall of 2014, at a cost of about $200 million, according to the Transportation Corridor Agencies. Ultimately, the 4.2-mile route would carry 41,000 vehicles daily, a staff report says, with annual revenues of $30 million in 2035. TCA staff laid out the numbers in January as TCA directors selected the end point for the extension. Directors decided a temporary terminus should be created at “Cow Camp Road,” being built east of Antonio Parkway and north of San Juan Creek. The permanent connection should be at “G Street,” in the same area, directors said, after Rancho Mission Viejo finishes its circulation system. When the interim step to push the toll road south was announced by San Juan Capistrano Councilman Sam Allevato, he said the next step would be from Capistrano to San Clemente, although TCA officials now deny that is being planned. The goal is to connect the 241 with the I-5. WHAT’S NEXT: Environmental studies and engineering studies will be done before construction. FIND OUT MORE: See the staff report at www.danapointtimes.com —Jonathan Volzke www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

A Jewel in the Rough

The city’s revitalization plan for Doheny Village moves forward By Andrea Swayne Dana Point Times

second public workshop on Tuesday brought the City of Dana Point one step closer to seeing a draft plan for the revitalization of Doheny Village, the downtown area of Capistrano Beach. City Council, staff and Planning Commissioners gathered for a joint meeting to present public comments and suggestions gathered during the first workshop meeting in November, share their opinions on the project and gather more input from the public. About 120 resident attendees, city leaders and representatives of ROMA Design Group—the company retained to prepare the plan design that also worked on Dana Point’s Town Center Plan, the Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica and San Francisco’s Embarcadero Promenade—shared optimism about the area’s potential but also acknowledged its many challenges. The 0.5-square-mile area—roughly bordered by San Juan Capistrano to the north, Interstate-5 to the east, railroad tracks to the west and the I-5 Beach Cities PCH offramp to the south—has been a somewhat cut off and neglected area of Dana Point. What was once an important area due to its proximity to the railroad became an underutilized conglomeration of light industrial, commercial and residential, isolated from the rest of Dana Point as city infrastructure grew up around it. Since the city took up the challenge of making a plan for the revitalization of the area in 2010 it has become regarded by leaders as an opportunity to transform the area into a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly area rich with abundant opportunities to shop, eat, live, experience art, culture and recreational activities in an area that is well-connected to the rest of Dana Point. But both city leaders and workshop attendees acknowledge that the process will be both difficult and lengthy. The area has become known by business owners and residents as a “seedy” part of town where day-laborers congregate and the homeless frequent, both in search of a hot meal and other services provided by nonprofit volunteer organizations and to find shelter under the I-5 Beach Cities/PCH off ramp overpass. Planning Commissioner Liz Claus said the more she looked at the area the more she thought it resembled “some family’s sad, alcoholic stepsister.” But in an optimistic twist, she also acknowledged, “All the bits and pieces are there, we just need

Dana Point Times February 3–9, 2012

The city is working on a plan to revitalize this area of Capistrano Beach known as Doheny Village. Photo courtesy ROMA Design Group/Tom Lamb Photography

to put the puzzle together.” Doheny Clothing Exchange owner Pamela Vandergrift said that friends warned her when she opened her store on the 34000 block of Doheny Park Road about a year ago, she would be taking a chance on a scary part of town. Ziad Mahshi, who opened his store 2nd Hand Treasures right next door to Vandergrift a few months ago, agrees that it is a problem area businesses must deal with on a daily basis. “Our biggest concern is safety and the problems we are having with illegals and the homeless. It is becoming a hazardous place behind our building. There are knives and public drinking,” said Mahshi. “I commend the response of the police department when we call but the problem is not going away. I would like to request the city consider this a priority.” City Manager Doug Chotkevys said the city is aware of the problems and already maintains a heavy police presence in the area. Part of the problem, he said, lies in the unwillingness of some of the area business owners to assist in prosecuting trespassers and he hopes this process will encourage the business community to step forward and work with the city. Mayor Lara Anderson agreed that safety is a big concern. “It is a little unfriendly and we do need to do something in the short term to make people feel more welcome there,” she said. City Planning Manager and Architect John Tilton’s presentation of suggestions from the first workshop, along with public comments at Tuesday’s meeting, also showed of major concern is the lack of connectivity to other parts of town and a need for public transportation. The feedback also reflected the public’s desire to maintain a small town feel, add beautification, art and culture into the mix and to preserve the historical significance of the area—especially with regard to Doheny’s

rich marine and surf heritage. Planning Commissioner Gary Newkirk made a well-received suggestion that the city look at adding a bicycle rentals with kiosks where visitors can rent a bike and return it to another kiosk at their destination. The program, he said, could be patterned after the B-Cycle program he discovered during travels in Denver and Boulder, Colorado. Other suggestions include more bike racks and paths, a bridge linking the area to an existing path near Doheny, free buses and improving the connectivity of Victoria Blvd., Doheny Park Road and Camino Capistrano to other parts of town in a way that will reinforce the area as a center of the community. Many agreed with Carl Iverson, a resident since 1957, who said he hopes that surf culture—the roots and ideas of surfboard shapers and pioneers like Hobie—is respected through the entire process. “This is where it started, right here in this little village,” he said. According to Dana Point Historical Society President Carlos N. Olvera, the history of the village stretches even further back and should also be preserved and celebrated in the project. “On July 14 Doheny Village will mark its 125th anniversary,” said Olvera. “In 1887, the Santa Fe Railroad built a spur line to the sea coast providing easy transportation to a beach resort as land speculators followed the railroad. The first of three train depots was built there in 1888. The area was first founded as SanJuan-by-the-Sea and the names of some of the original streets remain today—Victoria, Domingo, Las Vegas and Sepulveda to name a few.” So far the city has received a $340,000 sustainability grant from the state to assist with the development of the village and a $125,000 grant for use in studying how to better connect Town Center, Dana Point Harbor and Doheny Village.

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Boris Dramov, president of ROMA Design Group, likened the area to Berkeley’s Fourth Street, a once seedy industrial park that has been revitalized as a vital community gathering place with interesting shops, restaurants and cultural events. Scott Schoeffel, city councilman and chair of the Doheny Village Steering Committee said that like Fourth Street in Berkeley, the project will require private investment and careful planning in order to realize the goal of creating an inviting, invigorating and inspiring environment in Doheny Village. “I have seen what happens when cities add arts and culture and I think that’s the emphasis we need here. We need to come up with uses that will draw people in, like a performing arts center for example,” said Schoeffel, adding that the creation of a healthy business community in the village will be essential to the economic health of the city moving forward. Schoeffel also expressed confidence that the city’s new Arts and Culture Commission as well as its recently formed Dana Point Destiny business roundtable committee will stay intimately involved in helping to provide valuable input and recommendations on arts, culture and business matters as the plan takes shape. “We know it will take time but the Doheny Village Plan is one of those things that when finished, will seem like it has always been here,” said Schoeffel. “I hope we can all maintain the same excitement, resourcefulness and collaboration throughout all phases of the program.” Dramov agreed, saying public input is essential because residents know the area better than anyone else. “It’s essential also because it takes the energy of the community to make things happen,” he said. Tilton referred to the village as “a jewel in the rough” and said the city will continue to foster an open dialogue with residents in order to make the plan a reality. “The more people who offer their comments the better the process and the more the project will reflect the needs and desires of our community,” Tilton said. “Public input has been wonderful and many positive comments have come from the two meetings so far. We do hope to encourage residents who don’t usually attend these types of meetings to get involved as well.” City leaders will work with ROMA over the next three to four months to prepare a draft plan to be subjected to environmental scrutiny and presented at a future Planning Commission meeting, Tilton said. The city will continue to collect input from the public through February 15 and asks that suggestions be sent via email to jtilton@danapoint.org, faxed to 949.248.7372, mailed or dropped off at City Hall. More information on submitting suggestions can be found on the city’s website at www.danapoint.org. To see maps of current zoning uses in the Doheny Village area, three proposed versions of how future zoning could look and read the list of suggestions generated by the first workshop, log on to www.danapointtimes.com. DP www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

DP Sheriff’s Blotter COMPILED BY AUSTIN PATRICK REAGAN All information below is obtained from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department website. The calls represent what was told to the deputy in the field by the radio dispatcher. The true nature of an incident often differs from what is initially reported. No assumption of criminal guilt or affiliation should be drawn from the content of the information provided. An arrest doesn’t represent guilt. The items below are just a sampling of the entries listed on the OCSD Web site.

Monday, January 30 NONCOHABITANT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE Serena Drive, 34100 Block (10:12 p.m.) A man called to report that his sister-in-law hit the caller’s brother before taking an unknown number of prescription pills and being rushed to the emergency room. SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Danamaple, 24900 Block (9:32 p.m.) Someone called deputies to report several unknown subjects with flashlights who were climbing fences between the water tower and tennis courts. CITIZEN ASSIST Calle Real, 26800 Block (5:32 p.m.) A woman called following a verbal argu-

ment with a neighbor over her barking dog. The woman said she was upset over profanity used by the neighbor. WELFARE CHECK Doheny Park Road/Pacific Coast Highway (5:18 p.m.) Two adult males were allowing a 4-year-old boy and a 6-year-old girl to smoke cigarettes outside of a drug store. DISTURBANCE Trinidad Drive/Santiago Drive (3:50 p.m.) Three male juveniles were using a BB gun to shoot birds in the park. SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Saint Robert, 0 Block (11:50 a.m.) A woman called to report a man sitting in the front seat of his vehicle, apparently sleeping. TRESPASSING Pacific Coast Highway, 34100 Block (5:07 a.m.) A store employee called when a man, “Pablo,” was in the restroom of the store. The employee was told the week prior by deputies to call immediately when this happened so that he could be arrested for trespassing.

Sunday, January 29 RESCUE North of the SC Pier, 0 Block (5:25 p.m.) Harbor Patrol was contacted when a paddle boarder appeared to be in distress. The paddle boarder made it to shore.

NEWS BITES

Compiled by Andrea Swayne

PROPS, RECOGNITIONS AND MORSELS OF INFO SCWD Accepting Scholarship Applications

Coast Guard Auxiliary Hosts Boating Classes

The South Coast Water District is now accepting scholarship applications for 2012. Every year, South Coast Water District awards $500 scholarships to high school seniors who live within the SCWD service area and plan to attend college or a university. This year’s application deadline is May 1. Last year SCWD awarded six scholarships. The 2011 recipients were: Desiree Bramlette, Dana Hills High School, University of Arizona; Olivia Engelsman, San Clemente High, Abilene Christian University; Ellen Lomonico, Dana Hills High, UCLA; Raquel McNeff, Dana Hills High; Jared Schoeffel, St. Margaret’s High, Georgetown University and Molly Spear, Dana Hills, San Jose State University. Applicants must demonstrate involvement in community service, public service, volunteer work and/or environmental efforts and must type a 500-word essay on a waterrelated topic provided by SCWD. Applications may be submitted online, in person or by mail. Log on to www.scwd.org and click on “scholarships” for detailed entry and submission instructions and application materials. For more information contact Pam Miles at 949.499.4555 ext.3153 or pmiles@scwd.org.

The Dana Point Flotilla 06-08 of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is offering two seminars to help boaters review skills or learn new ones. Both seminars will be held at the Dana Point Yacht Club, 24399 Dana Drive in the harbor. Classes are $25 each or two for $40. Price includes materials. The February 7 class is titled “Suddenly in Command.” What happens when the skipper falls overboard or becomes incapacitated? This course will help boaters learn about their vessels, how to get help, essential equipment to carry on board and steps to minimize risks if this happens. The class runs from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. On February 9 a class called “Basics of Marine Radio” will be taught. This is a practical seminar that will focus on radio communication among boaters and with the Coast Guard. Fundamental principles will be taught and the mystery of some of those “pan-pan,” “security” and “mayday” calls will be explained, along with the proper time to use them. This class also runs from 7:30 pm. to 9:30 p.m. To register, contact Art Ambrose, flotilla staff officer for public education, via email at fso-pe@uscgaux-danapoint.org.

BOAT SPEEDING Baby Beach (2:49p.m.) Two young men in a gray inflatable dingy were doing donuts and speeding under the pier near swimmers.

Thursday, January 26 CITIZEN ASSIST Santiago Drive, 33200 Block (9:35 p.m.) A woman called to report that her 20-year-old son who is on probation for narcotics returned home under the influence of heroin. The woman said she had left the home but her husband was there waiting for deputies. SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Golden Lantern Street, 34600 Block (8:05 p.m.) A man in a restaurant parking lot was seen carrying a black bag. The man then vacated the area, but left the bag in an empty parking space about 400 feet from the restaurant.

Wednesday, January 25 WELFARE CHECK Water Ridge Court, 0 Block (11:04 p.m.) A woman called from the city of Costa Mesa to explain that she had just gotten off the phone with her Dana Point friend, who was in an argument with her husband. The woman was requesting that deputies go to the home and check it out.

PATROL CHECK Doheny Park Road, 34200 Block (10:24 p.m.) Someone called to report under age drinking at a bar. DISTURBANCE Pacific Island Drive/Crown Valley Parkway (6:49 p.m.) A man in a blue Audi called after being followed by another driver whom he had cut off. The caller feared a physical altercation could result if he stopped the car and got out. SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Dana Point Harbor Drive, 25000 Block (11:40 a.m.) A male restaurant patron was in the bathroom for over 15 minutes and was believed to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol. DISTURBANCE Calle Juanita, 26800 Block (3:51 a.m.) A caller said that her male neighbor, who lives in the side house, was at the front door yelling and trying to force his way in. The woman said that he was upset because he was being evicted and she suspected that he may have been under the influence of drugs. DISTURBANCE Amber Lantern Street, 34100 Block (2:26 a.m.) An anonymous caller speaking in Spanish said that a man who lives in the apartment complex was yelling. It was unknown if there was any type of fight going on inside. No further information was provided.

SOAPBOX VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

EDITOR STORIES, NEWS, CALENDAR, ETC.

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

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

HOW TO REACH US

Dana Point Times, Vol. 5, Issue 5. 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 2012. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

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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

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ALL HANDS, AHOY: By Beverli Jinn

An Exercise in Futility S ometimes I get discouraged. I guess everyone does. The problem with me, though, is that I get discouraged over things that I can’t do anything about: world peace, for example. The license on my little pickup truck says NORAMBO, an anti-war sentiment in a world of human beings intent upon killing one another, in a world where people seek power over other people. In our last presidential election, I voted for Barack Obama, largely because I believed that he shared my anti violence beliefs. A lot of good that did. The solution, perhaps, is to think small. My emails are all sent with a message attached to the signature: “The One Commandment: Be Nice!” I suppose I’m hoping that my niceness will generate niceness in others. I actually believe that this process works, but changing the world is a slow process. I’m discouraged by the fact that others will undoubtedly take advantage of me as I go about my life a Mother Theresa wannabe. Here in Dana Point, I try to keep things in

perspective. The oceans of the planet take up a whole lot of space, maybe 70 percent of the total area. It’s not our responsibility to take care of all of it. As an individual there’s Beverli Jinn almost nothing I can do to that will have an impact on the health of the ocean. Will it make any difference if I pick up a plastic bag from the street and put it into a recycle trash container? In last Saturday’s L.A. Times, there was a page one article about a remote beach, once pristine, stretching for miles on Mexico’s Caribbean coast and covered with trash of various kinds, mostly plastic. This debris has been carried by the North Brazil and Caribbean Currents and pollutes the Yucatan coast. The trash problem here is part of a much larger floating-junk crisis around the world’s oceans as the popularity of plastic containers has soared. And what, pray tell, can I, or you and I together or all the citizens of Dana Point, do about this problem?

The reality, of course, is that we can do nothing. The reusable bags that we carry to the market, the trash containers into which we faithfully dump our recyclable waste, the aluminum cans and plastic bottles that dumpster divers persistently salvage and sell to retrieve the California cash refund . . . are all for naught. “All is vanity and striving after wind.” And yet . . . if there is a meaning to our lives, if we exist for some cosmic purpose, if we are to feel good about ourselves, it is vital that we take on worthwhile, albeit futile, challenges. On the third Friday morning of each month, a group of dedicated Dana Point residents gathers in the Harbor at Coffee Importers to discuss the needs and possible solutions of this community. The event is called “Coffee Chat” and is open to anyone who makes the effort to attend. Jim Miller, as he does at so many city occasions, provides the coffee. Typically, city leaders lead a discussion of one issue or another that the community faces at the moment. At the January gathering,

the focus was on plastic bags. In the group of perhaps two dozen people, almost all of those present raised their hand when asked if they take reusable bags when they market. Now, why would that be? These folks know that the ocean beyond the harbor jetty is probably doomed. They know that nothing is going to stop the pollution in the Yucatan. They know that commercial interests will trump the efforts of save the ocean groups, that blue fin tuna will be fished until the last creature is pulled from the sea and filleted for hungry humanity. Still they persevere, discouraged but determined, not because they’re unrealistic but because there’s this driving sense of purpose keeping them on task. I’m proud to be a part of this wing of humanity, not so much resigned as driven by the sense of purpose that fills me. It does make a difference if I pick up that plastic bag. DP PLEASE NOTE: The opinions offered here are 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.

Letters to the Editor NO SIDEWALKS FOR ‘THOSE PEOPLE’ CAROLE WELING, Dana Point

In the Los Angeles Times, Tuesday January 31, 2012 on the front page is an article titled: Suits could force L. A. to put money into sidewalks. The City of Dana Point does not have this problem on PCH because for a stretch of over one mile they provide no sidewalk at all, even though there are numerous businesses and tourists in the area on a 24/7 basis. The city’s reasoning is that if there are no sidewalks then there is no maintenance issue. One does not have to maintain something that is not provided. How clever is that to restrict the disabled/those people and ignore the mandates of the ADA? Dana Point Times February 3–9, 2012

The city does not want to provide for “those people.” There is no sidewalk and no way to cross over PCH to get to the beach. Let disabled look out the window, if they must sojourn to our wonderful golden coast. It is discrimination at its best against “disabled.” Look at all of Dana Point’s tourist promotion material— only the wealthy, young and buff need visit. Providing for the disabled would make the city very uncomfortable and not in keeping with their faux image. The same holds true for the County of Orange, no pedestrian walkway for disabled to access the beach. When the county is asked why there is no disability

access, the response is—we are working on it. This is code for—working to keep “those people” out. This also will be denied. However, when over 20 years of “working on it” continues to keep out the disabled, the County’s true agenda is clear. The disabled are not welcome, pure and simple. The City of Dana Point likes to gloat about how fiscally solvent they are. They do not mention the fact that they are protecting their bottom-line on the backs of the disabled. This, of course, will be denied, but actions, or should I say that inaccessible dirt path next to the highway, speaks much louder than their shallow words.

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WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU 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.

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GETTING OUT

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

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

friday

JAZZ 2012 Celebrating 10 years of jazz at the Ocean Institute with multiple live jazz music performances and more; events Feb. 3 & 4. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274, ext. 413, www.ocean-institute.org.

NATE HANCOCK 8 p.m.-12 a.m. Live music at Wind and Sea Restaurant. 34699 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.6500, www.windandsearestaurants.com. THE DIRTY PINTS 10 p.m. Live music at Molly Blooms Irish Bar & Restaurant. 2391 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente 949.218.0120. www.mollybloomspub.com. FLOCK OF 80’S 8 p.m. Live music at Renaissance. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.renaissance-danapoint.com.

saturday

CUBENSIS 10 p.m. Band paying tribute to Jerry Garcia and the Grateful Dead at OC Tavern. 21+. 2369 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.542.8877, www.cubensis.com.

ANNUAL POOPERBOWL IX 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Palisades Elementary School’s annual fundraiser where a wandering cow fertilizes the field for your chance to win $250. Event includes games, food, music, silent auctions, vendors, and raffles. 26462 Via Sacramento, Capistrano Beach, 949.496.5942, www.pses.capousd.ca.schoolloop.com. LIVING ART GALLERY ART SHOW 12 p.m.-8 p.m. New art exhibit titled “The Panelists” on display through Feb. 14. Free admission. 3107 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.294.6424, www.sclivingartgallery.com. ROTARY/CARE BENEFIT CAR SHOW 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Event at the San Juan Capistrano Community Center/ Sports Park with a variety of vehicles from hot rods to muscle cars, antiques to classics, as well as entertainment, exhibits and more. 25925 Camino Del Avion, San Juan Capistrano, 949.661.3564, www.sjcrotary.org. Dana Point Times February 3–9, 2012

AT THE MOVIES POSSIBILITIES FOR OSCARS Award season for the achievement of film in 2011 has been going strong with plenty of surprising and unsurprising wins. The contenders have included The Artist, Moneyball, The Descendants, Beginners, The Tree of Life, The Help, Midnight in Paris, Hugo, A Separation and The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo to name a few. Over the last four weeks, many award ceremonies have been celebrated and from the results, film fans and critics can begin the guessing game of who will win the Oscar at the Academy Awards February 26. For Best Supporting Actor and Actress, it seems to be a no-brainer with Christopher Plummer and Octavia Spencer winning the Critics’ Choice, Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild awards for their work in Beginners and The Help. For Best Lead Jean Dujardin and Berenice Bejo in The Actress, the thespians have been awarded to Viola Davis at the Critics’ Choice and Artist. Photo by The Weinstein Company Screen Actors Guild for The Help and Meryl Streep and Michelle Williams who both took home the Golden Globe for Best Actress for The Iron Lady and My Week with Marilyn. Best Actor has been neck-inneck between George Clooney for The Descendants and Jean Dujardin in The Artist. Clooney took the Critics’ Choice and Globes and Dujardin the Screen Actors Guild. Until the Academy Awards, viewers can catch the nominees one last time and decide what movie will take Best Film. DP — Megan Bianco

LISA LOEB WITH JILL SOBULE 8 p.m. Concert at The Coach House. Tickets $25. Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com. MUSIC & COMEDY 6:30 p.m.-close. Acoustic music and live comedy at Zona’s. 647 Camino de Los Mares, San Clemente, 949.970.4568, www.ZonaItalianRestaurant.com. CHRIS CRAM 8 p.m.-12 a.m. Live music at Wind and Sea Restaurant. 34699 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.6500, www.windandsearestaurants.com.

sunday

WYLAND ART LESSONS IN THE WILD 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. Special art event by Dana Wharf aboard the Ocean Adventure Catamaran. Cost $44-$59. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com.

SUPERBOWL HAPPY HOUR 3 p.m. BeachFire has food and drink specials during the game. 204 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.366.3232, www.beachfire.com. SUPERBOWL PARTY 2 p.m.-8 p.m. Renaissance hosts a fun event for the big game. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.renaissance-danapoint.com. TOOLS FOR CHANGE 11 a.m.-3 p.m. The Ecology Center’s new interactive exhibition, featuring sustainable household products, a play area and learning space for children, and special weekend events. Open Saturdays and Sundays. 32701 Alipaz St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.443.4223, www.TheEcologyCenter.org.

monday

OVERVUE LOUNGE AND DECK HAPPY HOUR 3 p.m.6 p.m. Drinks and appetizers for $3-$6 at the Laguna Cliffs Marriot’s OverVue Lounge and Deck. 25135 Park Lantern, Dana Point, 949.661.5000, www.lagunacliffs.com.

CAPT. DAVE’S DOPLPHIN SAFARI Daily whale watching along the coast on a high-tech catamaran. $55 adult, $35 child 3 to 12, 2 and younger free. For times and reservations: 949.488.2828, www.dolphinsafari.com. MONDAY NIGHT LAUGHS 9 p.m.-11 p.m. Live stand-up comedy at Hennessey’s Tavern. 34111 La Plaza, Dana Point, 949.488.0121, www.hennesseystavern.com. Page 8

tuesday

VALENTINE DINNER COOKING CLASS 6:30 p.m. Learn how to cook a romantic meal at Antoine’s Café. $50 includes recipes, dinner and a glass of wine. 218 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.492.1763, www.antoinescafe.com.

BRINGING NATURE INTO OUR GARDENS AND INTO OUR LIVES 7 p.m. Event at Casa Romantica on how native plant gardens can enhance our well-being. $6–$7. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org.

wednesday

GROUNDATION 8 p.m. Reggae at The Coach House. Tickets $25. Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

JASON FOSTER & BRANDI SMITH 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Live acoustic duo at Salt Creek Grille. 32802 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.661.7799, www.saltcreekgrille.com. VINE WINE TASTING 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.

thursday

THE WHITE HOUSE GARDEN 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Casa Romantica hosts the Smithsonian Institution Exhibit featuring images of 18 acres of gardens, secluded retreats and parkland surrounding the White House. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org.

2012 FACULTY ART AND PHOTO EXHIBITION 4 p.m.-8 p.m. A new mixed media art exhibit at Saddleback College. Free admission. 28000 Marguerite Pkwy., Mission Viejo, 949.582.4656, www.saddleback.edu/arts. ROBIN HENKEL AND BILLY WATSON 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 www.danapointtimes.com

SPORTS

& OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES & MORE

D a n a Po i nt

5 BEST BETS GIRLS WATER POLO

Dolphins vs. Titans, Tesoro High

February 3, 3:15 p.m.

February 3, 7 p.m.

In their last regular season game of 2012, the Lady Dolphins host a Sea View League showdown against the girls from Aliso Niguel High.

The boys in blue and white are bound for Titan country as Dana Hills hits the court for a road game against Tesoro High School.

Info: www.dhhs.net

SPORTS NEWS FROM DANA HILLS HIGH SCHOOL

By David Zimmerle

GIRLS BASKETBALL • The Lady Dolphins (1-6 SCL, 10-14) ran into some trouble trying to hand Laguna Hills a league loss on January 23 as the girls were defeated, 54-22, at home against the Lady

WRESTLING

SVL Finals, TBA February 4, 10 a.m. The Sea View League title is on the line and the Dolphins have an eye on the prize as the team hits the mat for an epic day of win and pins. Info: www.dhhs.net

GIRLS BASKETBALL

Chargers vs. Dolphins, Dana Hills High February 6, 7 p.m. Poised to make a strong push down the home stretch of the regular season, the Lady Dolphins aim to pull off a solid win against El Toro High.

HOCKEY

Flames vs. Ducks, Honda Center February 6, 7 p.m. Before heading out for a grueling 8-game road trip, the Anaheim Ducks meet the Calgary Flames at center ice of the Honda Center. Info: www.ducks.nhl.com

Info: www.dhhs.net

Dolphin Report: BOYS BASKETBALL • The Dolphins (1-5 SCL, 11-12) split their last two games going 1-for-1 in Sea View League play. On January 25, Dana Hills hit the road to face San Juan Hills and beat the Stallions by the final score of 53-37. Despite trailing 15-14 at the close of the first quarter, the Dolphins stormed back to keep the lead throughout the final three frames of the game. On the night, Alex Brown led the team with 14 points while Landon Widerburg trailed with 10 points. The move in the right direction didn’t last long as the Dolphins dropped its next game, 62-44, while on the road visiting Tesoro January 27. For the game, Hayden Fredrick led Dana Hills with 13 points while Widerburg netted eight points. The team faced El Toro on February 3. Next 7 days: Feb. 7 at *Capo Valley, 7 p.m.; Feb. 9 at San Clemente, 7 p.m.

BOYS BASKETBALL

Wolverines vs. Dolphins, Dana Hills High

Hawks. Laura Johnson led the team with seven points. The girls split their next two games, while taking a break from South Coast League play. Dana Hills rolled to a 51-33 nonleague win against Tesoro on January 26, outscoring its foe in every quarter of play. Up 20-9 at the end of the first half, the Lady Dolphins continued to cut down Tesoro in the third frame before riding out the win in the fourth. On the night, Katie Underwood led with 12 points while Tori Nishihira finished with 10 points. The team then hosted the girls from Woodbridge High on January 28 and lost, 54-39, to the Lady Warriors at the end of regulation. Dana Hills jumped ahead 15-4 after the first period but had its offensive attack stifled in the second frame as Woodbridge outscored Dana Hills, 24-6. Down 28-21 heading into the second half, both teams were held to single digit scoring in the third period before Woodbridge locked this one down in the fourth quarter. Emily Jaimerena and Underwood both led the

team with 10 points each while Kristen Beckman finished with seven points. Next 7 days: Feb. 6 vs. *El Toro, 7 p.m.; Feb. 8 at *Mission Viejo, 7 p.m. BOYS SOCCER • After finishing out their match deadlocked at 1-1 with Trabuco Hills on January 20, the Dolphins (1-2-3 SVL, 5-7-7) regrouped to face Mission Viejo at home on January 27 and also wrapped the game knotted 3-3 with the Diablos. Dana Hills held the 2-1 advantage at the end of the first half before getting outscored 2-1 in the final half of play. The Dolphins got balanced scoring from several players as Jake Allen, Paul Romero and Vicente Ruiz each netted one goal apiece. Rony Alay had four saves at goal. Dana Hills next traveled to face Capo Valley on February 3. Next 7 days: Feb. 9 vs. *San Juan Hills, 3:15 p.m. GIRLS SOCCER • The Lady Dolphins (5-1 SVL, 12-5) bounced back from an earlier loss to Tesoro by defeating Laguna Hills at home, 1-0, on January 24. Tied 0-0 at the end of the first half, Dana Hills made it count in the next half of play as Rachel Edelstein kicked in the match winner in the 77th minute off

assists from Paige LaBarre and Brittany Muller. Laguna Hills goalkeeper Allie Scott prevented plenty of Dana’s shots from finding the back of the net as she finished the match with 18 saves. Dana Hills next traveled to take on Capo Valley on January 31. Next 7 days: Feb. 8 vs. *San Juan Hills, 3:15 p.m. GIRLS WATER POLO • The Lady Dolphins (6-0 SVL, 15-12) continued their quest for perfection in the Sea View League, trouncing Trabuco Hills, 14-7, on January 27. The team got out to a quick 4-2 lead at the end of the first period before matching goals with the Lady Mustangs in the second and closing out the half up, 6-4. Dana Hills then outscored Trabuco, 5-3, in the third period before shutting out its opponent, 3-0, in the fourth for the big victory. On the game, Emily Carlson went off with seven goals while Molly Wilbur finished the game out with four goals. Next 7 days: Feb. 3 vs. *Mission Viejo, 4:45 p.m. WRESTLING • The Dana Hills wrestling team is set to face off against its league foes in the Sea View League Finals set for February 4. Next 7 days: N/A

BUSINESS DIRECTORY DP DSaan n Cl a em Poenintet

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

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES PART TIME WORK- MUST FILL ASAP $16 Base/Appt National Company Has Several Openings Customer Service & Sales Flexible Schedules Scholarship Opportunities MUST FILL positions IMMEDIATELY CALL (949) 347-8708 APPLY ONLINE www.workforstudents.com

GARAGE SALES GARAGE SALE SAT. FEB. 4TH 8 AM TO 12 PM 639 Avenida Vaquero San Clemente 92673 Misc. Home Decor, Glassware, Kitchenware, Designer Pillows. Women And Men’s Clothing, Rod Iron Patio Furniture

HELP WANTED GENERAL OFFICE ASSISTANCE (CLERICAL WORK) Part-time 9am-12pm (Jan-April during tax season) Mature person, computer literate. Call: 949-481-4751

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

Do you want to reach 10,000+ people in the Dana Point area every week? Then you need to be in the Dana Point Times. Call us today! 949.388.7700 ext. 102

Dana Point Times February 3–9, 2012

Page 12

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 Architect, AIA 949.496.2275 26901 Camino de Estrella, www.raynona.com

AUTO REPAIR Dana Point Auto 949.496.1086 34342 Coast Hwy., Unit B, Dana Point, Ca 92629

BEAUTY SALONS Mobile Salon Malina www.salonmalina.com Paragon Salon 34161 Pacific Coast Hwy. Salon Revelation - Dayna Dallas 34192 Violet Lantern #2

949.500.2909 949.489.1955 949.248.8595

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

CATERING Smokey’s House of BBQ 32860 Pacific Coast Hwy. #4, www.SmokeysHouseofBBQ.com

949.388.8102

CHIROPRACTORS Ocean Ranch Chiropractic 949.584.5000 Dr. James Slusher & Dr. Ron Berman, 32585 Golden Lantern, Ste. H, www.oceanranchchiropractic.com Pacific Waves Family Chiropractic 949.436.2926 & Alternative Healthcare 24632 San Juan, Ste. 230, www.pacific-waves.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

COINS GraCorp Coins & Collectibles www.gracorpcoins.com

SURF LESSONS

POOL & SPA SERVICE MOBILE SALON MALINA Full service salon to you! Perfect for the whole family, busy executives, proms, weddings, parties and events. Invite to your home or office 7-days a week for haircuts and style! The mobile unit is designed to fit all requirements, from baby haircuts to adult male or femail and everyone in between. Book your appointment today. 949.500.2909, www.salonmalina.com

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

949.248.1007

949.547.1000

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

PRINT SHOP

949.831.7984

HAIR SALONS Mobile Salon Malina 949.500.2909 www.salonmalina.com The Captain’s Chair 949.496.1957 20 Monarch Bay Plaza, www.thecaptainschairdp.com Paragon Salon 949.489.1955 34161 Pacific Coast Hwy.

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

INSURANCE SERVICES

949.218.4464

SURF SHOPS Infinity Surfboards 949.661.6699 24382 Del Prado, www.infinitysurf.com Jack’s Surfboards 949.276.8080 34320 Pacific Coast Hwy, www.jackssurfboards.com

TUTORING

Beacon Printing - Brad & Judy Brandmeier English Tutoring by Susan 949.481.0481 24681 La Plaza, Ste. 125 949.661.3877 Mathnasium 949.388.6555 beaconprinting@sbcglobal.net 32411 Golden Lantern, Ste. Q, www.mathnasium.com Printing OC 949.388.4888 UPHOLSTERY 27134 Paseo Espada #B 203, www.printingoc.com

PSYCHOTHERAPY

FITNESS PROGRAMS Fit Club - Boot Camp www.afitclub.com

Island Inspired Pool & Spa islandinspired@earthlink.net

Ocean Academy www.oceanacademy4u.com

Corinne Rupert PhD, PsyD, MFT 949.488.2648 33971 Selva Rd. Ste. 125, www.danapointpsychotherapy.com

REAL ESTATE - RESIDENTIAL

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

WINDOW CLEANING

Bayside Window Cleaning 949.290.8230 Prudential California Realty, Shirley Tenger www.baysidewindowcleaning.com www.tengerteam.com 949.487.7700 Surterre Properties Monarch Beach, 949.464.3243 WINDOW COVERINGS McDaniel Gilmore Group Jeddy’s Yacht & Home Interiors 949.240.9569 33522 Niguel Rd. Ste. 100, Monarch Beach 92629 34118 Pacific Coast Hwy, www.jeddys.com www.mcdanielgilmoregroup.com

YOGA

RESTAURANTS Brio Tuscany Grille 949.443.1476 24050 Camino Del Avion, www.briorestaurant.com

Sun Salute Yoga Studio 949.371.6097 24655 La Plaza, Ste. A, www.sunsaluteyoga.com

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

JEWELER 949.350.4692 Kevin

COMPUTER REPAIR & SERVICES

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

JUNIOR WATERMAN PROGRAM

Ocean Academy San Clemente Computer & Network Services www.oceanacademy4u.com daniel@sanclementecomputer.com 949.276.1581

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

COSMETICS Mary Kay Cosmetics & Career 949.248.2868 Opportunities, Ind. Sales Director - Marline Adams, www.marykay.com/madams2

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

Danman’s Music School 949.496.6556 Jolly Roger Restaurant 949.496.0855 24699 Del Prado, www.danmans.com 34661 Golden Lantern, www.aloharestaurants.com Smokey’s House of BBQ 949.388.8102 PLUMBING 32860 Pacific Coast Hwy. #4, Chick’s Plumbing 949.496.9731 www.SmokeysHouseofBBQ.com www.chicks-plumbing.com

949.661.5664

ELECTRICAL delta G electrical 949.360.9282 CA #657214, www.deltagelect.com

949.218.4464

JUNK REMOVAL

Green Dump Truck www.greendumptruck.com

949.697.4517

LANDSCAPING Rocky Taylor Landscaping rjls@cox.net

949.697.1770

LANDSCAPING/SPRINKLERS Sunburst Landscaping www.sunlandscape.webs.com

949.632.0081 949.493.3670

LOCKSMITH Dana Point Lock & Security www.danapointlock.com

949.496.6919

MUSIC INSTRUCTION Kenny’s Music & Guitars 949.661.3984 24731 La Plaza, www.kennysmusicstore.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.

DP SURF

GROM OF THE WEEK Gunner Day Age: 12, Shorecliffs Middle School

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

D a n a Po i nt

Gunner Day started surfing at the age of three, coached by his dad Gavin. “My dad taught me everything I know and I completely trust his advice,” said the talented shortboarder who is currently practicing air reverses and stronger turns. So far he competes regularly only in SSS events as part of the Shorecliffs team. Although he has entered a few contests—an SC Open and two T. Patterson contests, making the finals in all three— he says he won’t join a series until he feels he’s really ready for it. In school Gunner is an A and B student and also enjoys drawing and playing basketball with his little brother Gus. As for chasing a pro career, Gunner plans to just “go with the flow” and says that if it proves to be out of his reach he will be OK with it. “It would be awesome to be a pro Gunner Day. Photo by Andrea Swayne surfer but I know it doesn’t happen to a lot of people and even some of the best surfers can’t quite pull themselves together to make it,” he said. But that doesn’t mean that he won’t chase that dream with everything he has and he vows to give it his best shot. Gunner credits his support system for his progress and would like to thank his uncle Garth Day (G.Day Surfboards) for shaping all his boards, his sponsor Fox, coach Señor Hennings (Dave Hennings) and his family for all of their help and guidance. —Andrea Swayne

Shredding at Steamer

SURF RESULTS Nike 6.0 Surfing America Prime Event No. 3, January 28-29, Santa Cruz, Steamer Lane Local finishers only. BOYS U18: 2. Jake Davis, Capistrano Beach; 4. Kevin Schulz, San Clemente. BOYS U16: 1. Jacob Davis, Capistrano Beach BOYS U14: 2. Griffin Colapinto, San Clemente; 4. Kei Kobayashi, San Clemente.

Local surfers shine at Santa Cruz Prime contest By Andrea Swayne Dana Point Times

he Surfing America Prime series brought the West Coast’s best under 18 surfers to Santa Cruz’ Steamer Lane the weekend of January 28 and 29 for the third stop of the six-stop series. While none of our local girls managed to put together a string of heats that would see them through to the finals, four boys took home trophies. Saturday’s waves were overhead and consistent but when heats started Sunday morning the swell had dropped significantly making for slower paced semifinal and final rounds. Despite the more challenging conditions, the talent of the group shone bright. In Boys U18, runner-up Jacob Davis of Capistrano Beach was edged out of first place by Santa Cruz’ Nic Hdez and San Clemente’s Kevin Schulz took fourth. Davis pulled it all together in U16 competition for the win. Two San Clemente groms made the podium in the U14 division—Griffin Colapinto in second and Kei Kobayashi in fourth.

Jacob Davis won Boys U16 and took second in U18 January 29 at Steamer Lane. Photo by Jack McDaniel/949foto.com

(L to R) Kei Kobayashi (SC), Griffin Colapinto (SC), Jacob Davis (CB) and Kevin Schulz (SC) made the finals at Steamer Lane. Photo by Andrea Swayne

With the smaller waves, the boys said the inconsistent sets really made them turn up their competitive intensity. “There was a lot more hassling for sure. More guys were ripping each other for waves, so you really had to be in the right spot,” said Schulz after his semi heat. “I was in the right place at the right time, got some good ones and made the final. The best kids from the country surf Primes and to make a final with them is a real confidence booster.”

The long trip to The Lane was a great chance for the members to get in some great practice. Surfing America Executive Director Greg Cruse and Cairns took full advantage of the location by holding a team practice before the event on Friday, January 27. The next Prime event is scheduled for February 11-12 at San Onofre State Beach, Upper Trestles. For more information about the Surfing America Prime series or the PacSun USA Surf Team, log on to www.surfingamerica.org. DP

While conditions were good on Saturday, Friday’s waves were described as epic and many of the contestants—both those vying for spots on the PacSun USA Surf Team and current team members— were there early to benefit. It’s not often that the team has the opportunity to surf a world-class break like Steamer Lane with ASP judges, computer scoring and Head Coach Ian Cairns on the mic giving real-time coaching during practice heats.